Seema Khaneja MD
Updated on: October 11, 2024 3:03 am GMT
Recent recalls of macaroni and cheese products due to potential spoilage have prompted alerts across several states. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced this week that Reser’s American Classics Macaroni & Cheese and White Cheddar varieties are part of a larger recall involving deli salads and refrigerated items. Consumers are urged to check the product dates and follow health guidelines to ensure safety.
Details of the Recall
The recall affects two types of Reser’s macaroni and cheese products sold in California, Illinois, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. The affected products are:
- Reser’s American Classics Macaroni & Cheese with “use by” dates of September 14 and September 16, 2024.
- Reser’s American Classics Macaroni & Cheese White Cheddar with a “use by” date of September 11, 2024.
These items were recalled due to “temperature abuse,” which may have resulted in spoilage during transport.
The recall includes Reser’s American Classics Macaroni & Cheese varieties sold in various states due to potential spoilage during transport.
Background on Food Safety Concerns
The FDA announced that the spoilage risk was due to a malfunctioning refrigeration unit on the transportation trailer. Reser’s Fine Foods emphasized that the recall was isolated to one truckload delivered to a single distributor. According to the company, the products did not make it to store shelves, and items already purchased are safe to consume.
Retail Impact
Major retailers such as Walmart and Safeway confirmed that their stores were not affected by the recall. Target, another retailer selling the products, has yet to respond regarding their status. Reser’s Fine Foods also produces a variety of other products that were recalled, including potato salads, scalloped potatoes, pasta salads, and various dips.
Health Implications
The FDA classified this recall as “Class II.” This designation indicates that exposure to the recalled products may lead to temporary or reversible health consequences, although the probability of serious adverse effects is low. Foods that have been kept at unsafe temperatures are at risk of harboring harmful bacteria, including salmonella and E. coli.
As a precaution, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) advises that food should not be left unrefrigerated for more than two hours. When temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, this timeframe shortens to just one hour. Such guidelines are crucial, especially for cooked foods like macaroni and cheese.
Preventative Measures
To minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses, it is essential for consumers to handle and store food safely. The USDA recommends placing leftovers in shallow containers for rapid cooling before refrigerating. Furthermore, even reheated cooked foods can become contaminated if not stored properly.
For More Information
Consumers seeking additional details about the recall or other food safety guidelines can visit the FDA’s official website. Staying informed on recalls and food handling practices is vital for ensuring health and safety.
This recall reminds us how important it is to be safe with our food. It also shows us that we should pay attention to how food is stored and transported when we buy ready-to-eat meals. Reser’s Fine Foods wants everyone to know that they are committed to keeping their food safe and of high quality.
