Maya Overseas Foods Inc. of Maspeth, NY, is recalling approximately 8,000 lbs. of Cashew Split (cashews split lengthwise) because the product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. The Cashew Split was distributed between Feb. 18, 2015, and March 20, 2015, to retailers and restaurants located in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Florida by direct trucking and delivery. Maya brand Cashew Split was sold uncoded in 7-oz. (UPC 020843230389), 14-oz. (UPC 020843230716), 28-oz. (UPC 020843230327) and 5-lb. (UPC 020843230303) clear plastic pouches. The Cashew Split was also sold in bulk 50-lb. tins. No illnesses have been reported to date. The recall was the result of routine FDA sampling at the supplier, which revealed that the bulk Cashew Split contained the bacteria. The company has ceased production and distribution of the product while FDA and the supplier continue to investigate what caused the problem. Consumers who have purchased Maya brand Cashew Split are urged not to consume the product and to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (718) 894-5145, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT. Salmonella bacteria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (e.g., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)