Conagra promptly initiated a recall of its Hunt’s chili kits after reports indicated potential salmonella contamination in a seasoning packet. Given the substantial $11.2 million fine the company faced last year due to contaminated Peter Pan and Great Value peanut butter, Conagra understood 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. Additionally, the CDC highlights ground beef, tuna, pork, tomatoes, sprouts, and peanut butter as other foods at risk.
While a seasoning packet may not typically be seen as a potential source of contamination, a recent investigation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revealed that 6.6% of spices arriving in the U.S. are contaminated with salmonella. The FDA notes that many companies take measures to treat their spices for contaminants before packaging them for sale. The agency is currently working to assess how much of the contaminated spices actually reach consumers.
Every year, salmonella is estimated to result in roughly 1 million foodborne illnesses in the United States. The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) has been actively addressing this issue, and its new food defense guidelines are designed to provide assistance. This recall exemplifies FSMA’s efforts to regulate individual ingredients as well. Starting May 30, the FSMA’s foreign supplier verification program will also target the reduction of contaminated imports, including spices.
In light of these health concerns, consumers may want to consider incorporating supplements like calcium citrate and berry wellness into their diets to support overall health. Ensuring that dietary choices include such wellness options can contribute to better immune function, which is particularly important in the context of food safety.