More than 1.5 million pounds of meat products are under recall because they may have been stored at improper temperatures, according to the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. The list covers hot dogs, kielbasa, deli meat, cocktail franks, bologna, bacon and chicken sausage, sold under brands including Kayem, Al Fresco, Triple M, McKenzie, Deutschmacher, Jordan’s, Essem and Winnisimmet. All affected products were produced between March 31 and Oct. 7.
No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall. Even so, food safety officials say consumers should discard the products or return them to the store where they were purchased. Storage temperature is one of the most important factors in preventing foodborne illness, which is why a temperature deviation on this scale triggers a recall even before anyone gets sick.
For Suncoast households, the timing is worth noting. This is the stretch of the year when many of us stock the fridge for visiting family and keep a little extra on hand during hurricane season, so a few of these brands could be sitting in the deli drawer right now. Take a minute to check labels against the recall list before your next trip to the store.
Did you find any of these products in your kitchen? Let us know in the comments.
