Heartland Black Pepper Salmonella Recall
A Heartland Foods black pepper recall is related to earlier recalls of Daniele salami that are associated with an outbreak that has so far sickened more than 200 nationwide. Heartland Foods, Inc. of Indianapolis, Ind. is recalling all sizes and containers of COARSE GROUND BLACK PEPPER shipped from their facility between Oct. 19, 2009 and Feb. 17, 2010 over concerns that it may contain Salmonella, a harmful pathogen that can cause a Salmonella infection (salmonellosis), according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The potentially Salmonella-contaminated black pepper was packaged in the following sizes:
- 1 lb. Quart (jar)
- 4 lb. Gallon
- 8 lb. Bucket (new pail)
According to the FDA:
“Product distribution of Coarse Ground Black Pepper has been suspended while the FDA continues its investigation.”
Consumers who have the recalled product should not consume it. Salmonella symptoms can affect healthy people, but are most serious in children, the elderly and people with weak immune systems. Salmonellosis symptoms are similar to common gastro-intestinal problems, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and bloody diarrhea. People who think they may be affected by salmonellosis should be tested by a doctor.
In serious cases, Salmonella poisoning can result lead to complications including Reiter’s Syndrome or even salmonellosis-related death.
