Costco and Publix Recall Salad Dressings Over ‘Foreign Objects’
California-based Ventura Foods has issued a recall of salad dressings sold at popular retailers, including Costco and Publix. The recall affects more than 3,500 cases due to potential contamination with foreign materials.
Key Details of the Recall
- Product Type: Salad dressings, including Caesar, Italian, and ranch varieties.
- Affected Brands: Ventura Foods, Hidden Valley, Pepper Mill.
- Recall Initiation Date: November 6, 2023.
- Recall Classification: Class II, indicating a low probability of serious health consequences.
Background of the Contamination
The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) reported that the contamination originated from black plastic planting materials found in onion ingredients. Ventura Foods recalled these products after discovering that one of its suppliers had initially recalled a batch of onion granules.
In response to the potential health risk, Ventura Foods prioritized consumer safety. They notified retailers to remove affected items from shelves promptly.
Involved Retailers
The affected salad dressings were sold at several retailers across multiple states, including:
- Costco
- Publix
The recall impacted seven retail customers across 42 locations in 27 states, including:
- Kentucky
- Georgia
- Florida
- Michigan
- Texas
- Ohio
- Virginia
- Others
The affected products have since been removed from store inventories to ensure consumer safety.
Consumer Guidance
Customers in possession of these salad dressings are advised to check their products and discontinue use. Any concerns regarding health impacts should be directed to healthcare professionals.
Ventura Foods has expressed its commitment to food safety, stating, “We are supporting our partners through the recall process while prioritizing food safety.” The company aims to minimize operational disruptions as they work through this recall.
