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NorStar Specialty Foods Recalls Tzatziki Because of Possible Health Risk

NEWS RELEASE



Contact:  Gerry Isaac
          (206) 764-4499

For Immediate Release

NorStar Specialty Foods Recalls Tzatziki Because of Possible Health Risk

Seattle, WA - October 12, 2001 -- NorStar Specialty Foods Inc. of Seattle, Washington is conducting a voluntary recall of its 8 ounce and 24 ounce containers of Janiecy's brand "Tzatziki Creamy Cucumber Garlic Sauce" because the product may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The recalled Tzatziki was distributed in the state of Washington in 8 ounce and 24 ounce containers in retail and warehouse club stores, and in the states of Oregon, California, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, Nevada and Texas in 24 ounce containers in warehouse club stores.

The product is packaged in 8 ounce and 24 ounce clear plastic containers labeled "Tzatziki Creamy Cucumber Garlic Sauce" and showing the Janiecy's brand name and logo. The affected product is marked with a date label stating "Use by 11/22/2001". The date label is located on the side of the 24 ounce containers and the bottom of the 8 ounce containers.

No Illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the company revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in one sample of the product. The company has suspended production of the product while it investigates and corrects the source of the problem.

Consumers who have purchased 8 ounce or 24 ounce containers of Janiecy's brand "Tzatziki Creamy Cucumber Garlic Sauce" are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Gerry Isaac at NorStar Specialty Foods at 1-888-764-4499.


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