NEW ULM, MINN. — Associated Milk Producers Inc. (A.M.P.I.) is recalling some dry whey powder sold in 50-lb and 25-kg bags that was produced at the company’s Blair, Wis., manufacturing plant. The ingredient may be contaminated with Salmonella and may be the source of recent recalls initiated by the Campbell Soup Co., Mondelez International, Inc. and Flowers Foods, Inc.
“All products shipped into the marketplace tested negative for Salmonella as part of A.M.P.I.’s routine testing program,” the company said. “However, because additional product tested positive for Salmonella under A.M.P.I.’s routine test and hold procedures, the company is recalling product as a precautionary measure. A.M.P.I. has ceased production at its Blair, Wis., dry whey plant, is currently investigating the cause for the positive samples and will take all necessary remedial actions.”
Lots subject to recall were produced at the Blair plant May 1-5, 2018, May 24-29, June 2-5, and June 7-14, according to the company.
Scott Gottlieb, M.D., commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, said more recalls associated with the ingredient may be initiated in the coming days.
“We are also aware that our partners at the U.S. Department of Agriculture are working with Pinnacle Foods Inc. on a public health alert regarding certain Hungry Man products that may also contain this ingredient,” he said. “It’s early in our investigation, and to date there have been no cases of illnesses associated with any of these recalled products. I want to reinforce that, at this time, this is a cautionary step, and we appreciate that these companies are taking these measures.”
On July 21, Mondelez International, East Hanover, N.J., recalled some Ritz Cracker Sandwiches and Ritz Bits due to potential Salmonella contamination. On July 23, the Campbell Soup Co., Norwalk, Conn., recalled 3.3 million units of Pepperidge Goldfish crackers due to potential contamination.
“These recalls are being initiated because of a potential risk, and out of an abundance of caution,” Dr. Gottlieb said. “We are investigating this potential risk and closely monitoring whether there are any reported cases of food related illness associated with any of these products.”