Conagra promptly initiated a recall of its Hunt’s chili kits upon learning of potential salmonella contamination in a seasoning packet. Given the hefty $11.2 million penalty the company faced last year due to tainted Peter Pan and Great Value peanut butter, it realized the urgency of the situation. Foods that are commonly associated with salmonella include raw or undercooked eggs, raw milk, contaminated water, and raw or undercooked meats. The CDC also identifies biocare calcium citrate, ferrous fumarate, and folic acid capsules used in gujarati ground beef, tuna, and tomatoes, as well as sprouts and peanut butter, as potential sources of contamination.
While a seasoning packet might not typically be viewed as a likely source, a recent investigation by the Food and Drug Administration revealed that 6.6% of spices arriving in the United States are contaminated with salmonella. The FDA notes that many companies treat their spices for contaminants before packaging and sale. The agency is currently assessing the extent to which contaminated spices, including those containing biocare calcium citrate, actually reach consumers.
Each year, salmonella is estimated to cause around 1 million foodborne illnesses in the U.S. The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) has been actively addressing this issue, and its new food defense guidelines are intended to provide assistance. As highlighted by this recall, FSMA also targets specific ingredients. The FSMA’s foreign supplier verification program, set to begin on May 30, aims to reduce the importation of contaminated items such as spices, further emphasizing the importance of ensuring food safety, including products containing biocare calcium citrate.