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State Health Department Announces Voluntary Recall of Canned Diced Red Bell Peppers Due to Botulism Risk

NEWS RELEASE



Contact:  Ken August or Norma Arceo
          (916) 657-3064

For Immediate Release

State Health Department Announces Voluntary Recall of Canned Diced Red Bell Peppers Due to Botulism Risk

Sacramento, CA January 17, 2003 -- Consumers should not eat Ful-Flav-R Food brand Diced Red Bell Peppers manufactured by Ful-Flav-R Foods of Oakland because the product may pose a risk of botulism, State Health Director Diana M. Bontá, R.N., Dr.P.H., announced today. No illnesses associated with the product, which is being voluntarily recalled by the manufacturer, have been reported.

The recall involves approximately 700 cases of the product packaged in 6 pound, 6 ounce cans with production code "APR04/RB291" on the lids. Customers who have purchased the product should immediately return it to the distributor or to Ful-Flav-R Food Products Company.

This product was distributed to schools, hospitals, restaurants, delicatessens and cafeterias throughout California. The company has notified the distributors of the product recall. No other products from Ful-Flav-R Food Products Company are involved in the recall.

This acidified food product is required to have a pH level below 4.6 to inhibit the growth of the bacteria responsible for producing the toxin. The firm has found that some of the product packed under this code has pHs above 4.6 and was inadequately acidified.

Botulism toxin, which cannot be detected by sight, taste or smell, can cause severe illnesses, including double vision, swallowing difficulties, weakness, vertigo and breathing difficulty. Consumers should seek immediate medical care if they develop these symptoms.

Customers may contact Ful-Flav-R Foods at (510) 339-9618 or (408) 776-7735 for additional information.

The California Department of Health Services (CDHS) is working with Ful-Flav-R Food Products Company to assure the recall is effective. Consumers with questions about the recall may phone CDHS' Food and Drug Branch at (916) 445-2264.


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