32,000 Pounds of Meat Recalled After Products Found with False USDA Inspection Labels

32,000 Pounds of Meat Recalled Due to False USDA Inspection Labels

A New Jersey-based food company has issued a recall for approximately 32,000 pounds of pork and chorizo products after it was discovered that they were being sold with incorrect inspection labels. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) revealed the alarming discovery in a notification on Thursday, Aug. 20. Sabrositos Hondureños, LLC, located in Edison, N.J., distributed the affected items to various stores and restaurants nationwide.

The recalled products, which include vacuum-sealed packages of Olancho Sabrositos Hondureños chorizo, pork chops, and ribs, were found to have been manufactured without proper federal inspection. Additionally, these items were identified as carrying a fraudulent USDA mark with establishment number “EST. 1785,” which does not correspond to an authentic USDA inspection mark, as per FSIS.

The specific products included in the recall are:

– 14-oz. vacuum-sealed packages of homestyle chorizo labelled as “OLANCHO Chorizo Suelto Olanchano SABROCITOS HONDUREÑOS”
– 14-oz. vacuum-sealed packages of smoked pork chops labelled as “OLANCHO Chuleta Ahumada Olanchana SABROCITOS HONDUREÑOS”
– 14-oz. vacuum-sealed packages of smoked chorizo labelled as “OLANCHO Chorizo Ahumado Olanchano SABROCITOS HONDUREÑOS”
– 14-oz. vacuum-sealed packages of cased homestyle chorizo labelled as “OLANCHO Chorizo Olanchano Criollo SABROCITOS HONDUREÑOS”
– 14-oz. vacuum-sealed packages of smoked BBQ spicy chorizo labelled as “OLANCHO Chorizo Parrillero SABROCITOS HONDUREÑOS”
– 14-oz. vacuum-sealed packages of smoked ribs labelled as “OLANCHO Costilla Ahumada Olanchana SABROCITOS HONDUREÑOS”

The issue came to light during regular surveillance conducted by officials, emphasizing the importance of stringent food safety measures. While no illnesses or adverse reactions related to the consumption of these products have been reported thus far, the lack of proper inspection raises concerns about potential allergens, harmful bacteria, or contaminants that could pose health risks.

Consumers are strongly advised to inspect their refrigerators and freezers for the recalled items and to refrain from consuming or serving them. Instead, individuals should return the products to the place of purchase or dispose of them properly to prevent any health hazards. The FSIS is actively monitoring the recall process to ensure the removal of these products from the market and will update retail distribution lists on their website as new information becomes available.

Food recalls serve as a critical reminder of the significance of accurate inspections and labelling in the food industry to safeguard public health. Continued vigilance and adherence to food safety guidelines are essential to prevent potential risks associated with contaminated food products. By staying informed and following proper procedures, consumers can play a crucial role in maintaining food safety standards within the marketplace.