World Variety Produce, Inc. of Los Angeles, CA is recalling Serrano Peppers, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which 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 (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
The affected Serrano Peppers were isolated to 300 cases from Lot # 69073901, product of Mexico.
This recall extends only to Walmart stores in Wisconsin, Montana, Utah and Wyoming; in addition to Jewel-Osco stores in Illinois. The affected Serrano peppers were sold from bulk displays between the dates of March 1, 2011 through March 18, 2011.
The recall was as the result of a routine sampling program by the USDA which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. World Variety Produce, Inc. has ceased the production and distribution of the product as FDA, California Department of Public Health and World Variety Produce, Inc. continues their investigation as to what caused the issue.
Consumers who have purchased the affected Serrano peppers listed above are asked to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact World Variety Produce, Inc. at 1-800-588-0151 Monday through Friday between 6:00 am and 5:00 pm Pacific Standard Time.
Source: FDA
