WASHINGTON, June 28, 2001-- Berks Packing
Co. Inc., a Reading, Pa., firm, is voluntarily recalling approximately 400
pounds of franks because they contain an undeclared allergen (milk
products), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and
Inspection Service announced today.
Product labels do not reflect that the franks were made with American
and cheddar cheeses. Milk products, which are found in these cheeses, are
known allergens. Persons who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk
products run the risk of possible serious allergic reactions if they
consume the product.
The products being recalled are 1 lb. packages of "BERKS GRILL
FRANKS." Each package is labeled "SELL BY 0908" and
"EST 8782" appears on the label inside the USDA seal of
inspection.
The product was produced on May 12, and was distributed to retail
stores in Schuykill County, Pa.
"We urge consumers to check their refrigerators and
freezers," said Margaret Glavin, acting FSIS administrator. "If
they find any of the products listed above and are allergic to milk
products, consumers should not eat them, but return them to the point of
purchase."
The problem was discovered by the establishment, which then notified
FSIS. FSIS is not aware of any illnesses associated with consumption of
the product. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a physician.
Consumers and media with questions about the recall may contact Ralph
Weise, vice president of food safety, Berks Packing Co. Inc., at (800)
882-3757.
Consumers with other food safety questions can phone the toll-free USDA
Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-800-535-4555. The hotline can be reached
from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time), Monday through Friday, and recorded
food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.
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