OAKLAND, CA – Undeclared allergens have become the top reason for processed meat recalls this year, topping even pathogens. According to FSIS, so far this year 39 percent of the meat recalls were initiated due to undeclared allergens, compared to 32 percent caused by pathogens.
Wheat, Crustacean shellfish, eggs, fish, peanuts, milk, tree nuts and soybeans can all trigger a Class I recall if not listed on the ingredients statement. Control of non-meat ingredients is the primary means of protecting consumers and avoiding these recalls. To address the issue NMA has recently updated its NMA Resource on “Getting Ready for a Recall” and rewritten its NMA Resource on “Control of Allergens and Other Ingredients of Public Health Concern.”
Additionally, to assist its members and others in dealing with these issues, NMA will hold an NMA Webinar on Allergens on October 18 at 9:30am-11:00am (PST). Registration information is available at www.nmaonline.org/events.
Source: National Meat Association