HHS NEWS

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION
P00-2                                                Print Media:   301-827-6242
January 27, 2000                                     
                                                     Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

FDA ISSUES NATIONWIDE WARNING ON SENOR FELIX'S, TRADER JOE'S, DELICIOSO, AND THE CARRYOUT CAFÉ BRANDS OF 5 LAYER DIP BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK

The Food and Drug Administration is alerting the public not to purchase or consume recalled 5 layer dips sold under the brand names Senor Felix's, Trader Joe's, Delicioso, and The Carryout Café because they have the potential to be contaminated with Shigella sonnei bacteria, an organism that causes a form of bacterial dysentery which can cause bloody diarrhea, cramps, fever, nausea and vomiting and can possibly lead to hospitalization. Shigella infection is serious and very contagious, but can be treated though prompt medical attention.

The recalled 5 layer dips contain layers of black or pinto beans, salsa, guacamole, nacho cheese and sour cream, among other ingredients. They were distributed nationwide in retail stores and can be identified with the following brand names:

Senor Felix's Five Layered Party Dip
Delicioso 5 Layer Dip
Trader Joe's Five Layered Fiesta Dip
The Carryout Café Mexican Fiesta Party Dip 5 Layer

All of the above products were manufactured by Senor Felix's Gourmet Mexican Foods Inc., of Baldwin Park, Calif.

To date at least 49 illnesses (five hospitalizations) have been reported in association with consumption of this product.

These products were recalled voluntarily (with an accompanying press release) by the company on January 22, after they were linked to shigellosis outbreaks in several western states.

FDA is working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state health departments to track the affected products and to identify the cause of the problem.

Consumers who have purchased any of the affected 5 layer dips should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Those who have consumed these recalled products and have experienced symptoms of shigellosis should seek medical attention. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-807-7335.

For more information, see:
Outbreak of Shigella sonnei Infections Associated with Eating a Nationally Distributed Dip--California, Oregon, and Washington
January 2000--Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report