**USDA Issues Health Alert Over Betterballen Foods’ Undeclared Allergens**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/meat-grocery-shopping-111026-37ddc31f78bd4b76b85e673261ef3ba9.jpg)
In a recent announcement, health officials have raised concerns regarding three frozen meat products produced by Betterballen Foods, a company renowned for its Dutch food offerings based in the United States. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) issued a public health alert dated 6 November after it was revealed that these products contained undeclared allergens, specifically sesame and anchovy.
The alert specifically involves several frozen items made from beef, chicken, and pork. Among the products in question are six-piece packages of Bami Rolls containing pork, 10-piece packages of Saté Kroketten made of chicken, and 12-piece packages of Bitterballen, which are beef-based. Consumers who purchased these items have been advised to take immediate action.
Investigations conducted by health officials indicated that the undeclared sesame oil posed a significant risk, particularly to individuals with known allergies. Furthermore, the presence of Worcestershire sauce, which includes anchovy (a type of fish), had also not been disclosed on the product labels, adding to the safety concerns.
All affected products were manufactured on 15, 16, and 27 October of this year and bear a “best buy” date of October 2027. These items are marked with establishment numbers “EST. M3177” or “EST. P3177,” which can be found in conjunction with the USDA inspection mark. While Betterballen Foods primarily distributed these items through internet sales via Lowlands House, there’s the possibility they were also available at local festivals and farmers’ markets, particularly in Greer, South Carolina.
The origin of the alert was identified during a routine label review by the FSIS, which underscored the importance of accurate labelling in food safety. Importantly, a recall was deemed unnecessary as the products are no longer available for purchase; however, there is apprehension that some consumers may still have them in their homes. Authorities strongly advise consumers who may have acquired these items to refrain from consuming them and either discard the products or return them to the place of purchase.
As of this moment, no adverse reactions have been reported related to the consumption of these frozen items. Nevertheless, anyone who feels unwell or has concerns regarding possible allergic reactions is encouraged to seek medical advice.
The issue of undeclared allergens in food products has become a focal point in recent times, especially following the implementation of the Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research (FASTER) Act which took effect on 1 January 2023. This legislation categorised sesame as the ninth major food allergen, necessitating clear labeling on food packages and dietary supplements, thereby reinforcing consumer safety.
Prior to the FASTER Act, there were already established allergenic ingredients recognised by federal law, including milk, eggs, various fish species, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans. The addition of sesame to this critical list highlights the continuing evolution of food safety regulations in the US.
In the wake of this alert, Betterballen Foods and regulatory officials continue to underscore the necessity for precise labelling in food products. Such measures are vital in ensuring consumer safety and protecting those with food allergies from potential health risks.
Consumers are urged to stay vigilant and check their pantries for products that might be involved in this alert, as the health implications can be severe for those with allergies. Further updates on food safety regulations and alerts can be found on the USDA and FDA websites, where resources are available to assist consumers in making informed dietary choices.
About the Author
