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Food Safety Alert: Dried Sweet Potato

NEWS RELEASE



Contact:  Jenny He
          (718) 417-9281

For Immediate Release

Brooklyn, NY - January 17, 2002 -- Allied Imports Inc., located at 1266 Flushing Ave., Brooklyn NY 11237, is recalling 7 oz. packages of Dried Sweet Potato because the product contains undeclared sulfites. People who have severe sensitivity to sulfites run the risk of serious or life threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The Dried Sweet Potato, product of China, is distributed in uncoded, heat sealed 7 oz. plastic bags. Product was distributed in the New York metropolitan area.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered through routine sampling by NYS Dept. of Agriculture & Markets Food Inspectors that the product containing sulfites, was distributed in packages that do not declare the presence of sulfites. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reactions in some asthmatics. Anaphylactic shock could occur in certain sulfite sensitive individuals upon ingesting 10 milligrams or more of sulfites. Analysis of the Dried Sweet Potato revealed that it contained in excess of 10 milligrams per serving.

Establishments who have purchased the 7 oz. packages of Dried Sweet Potato can return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 718-417-9281.

FDA/Website Management Staff
Web page created by tg 2002-JAN-22.