Recently, there has been a recall of certain sesame paste products because of potential Salmonella contamination. It is important to be aware of the details to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones.
Which brands and products are affected by the sesame paste recall?
Turkana Food Inc. has made it public that about 858 cases of Aleppo Tahini Sesame Paste have been recalled after the routine testing carried out by the Ohio Department of Agriculture discovered the presence of Salmonella. The specific product is a 16-ounce Aleppo tahini sesame paste, Lot #120824-01, UPC 854643003054, with an expiration date of August 2026. The jars are made of plastic with a gold cover. The product has been distributed in various states such as Florida, Kentucky, Virginia, New York, New Jersey, Tennessee, Massachusetts, Texas, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Maryland, Ohio, Alabama, Missouri, and California.
What should you do if you have purchased the recalled sesame paste?
If you are one if those who have already purchased the recalled sesame products then here are some suggestions on the next steps to take:
- Do not eat it. Even if you’ve already used some without issue, it’s best to avoid any further consumption.
- Return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- If you are unable to return, dispose of the product by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and throwing it into a secure trash can to prevent accidental consumption by others or animals.
What are the symptoms of Salmonella infection?
Salmonella can cause a number of symptoms that typically appear between 12 to 72 hours after exposure. These include:
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
While many people recover without treatment within four to seven days, certain groups are at higher risk for severe illness. This includes young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. In some cases, the infection can spread beyond the intestines, leading to more serious conditions.
Have there been other recent recalls of sesame products due to Salmonella?
Yes, there have been several instances in recent years:
- Ziyad Brothers Importing recalled various sizes of their Tahini Sesame Paste after tests indicated potential Salmonella contamination. The recall was nationwide, affecting products in 8, 16, and 32-ounce jars, as well as half-gallon containers.
- Emesa Foods issued a recall for their Premium Sesame Tahini sold in 800-gram containers due to similar concerns. These products were distributed in Michigan and Texas.
- Mediterranean Food Inc. recalled their 2-pound jars of “Alqosh Sesame Oil” after routine testing revealed Salmonella contamination. These were distributed in Michigan retail stores.
How can you stay informed about food recalls?
To stay up-to-date on the latest food recalls:
- Regularly check the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website for up-to-date information on recent recalls.
- Subscribe to alerts about recalls to get timely notices from trusted sources.
- Get notified through local news, which always carries reports about major recalls relevant to the community.
Being alert and informed can help you and your family avoid possible health risks due to adulterated food products.
Continue reading:
A sesame paste product sold in Michigan could make you sick – Here’s why it’s being recalled