USDA ANNOUNCES RECALL OF CALIFORNIA MEAT PRODUCTS WITH SULFITES

WASHINGTON, Jan. 24, 1996 -- The U. S. Department of Agricultures's Food Safety and Inspection Service today announced that a meat processor in Petaluma, Calif., has agreed to voluntarily recall all product processed before January 8, 1996 because the merchandise may contain sulfite, a restricted substance that can mask spoilage in meat and poultry.

Velasam Veal Connection, Est. 1457, in Petaluma, Calif. is voluntarily recalling all beef, veal and lamb chops, roasts, and a variety of specialty products it sold to major hotels and restaurants throughout the country.

Velasam product was also distributed to retail markets in the San Francisco Bay area. The company has withdrawn its products from retail markets, but USDA said it is possible consumers may still have this product stored in their freezers. These products do not have a code date, or have code dates prior to Jan. 8, 1996.

All Velasam products sold at retail will bear the USDA establishment number, "Est.1457."

USDA said initial FSIS field tests and laboratory confirmation have shown sulfite in some Velasam products.

No illnesses have been reported due to consumption of sulfite in Velasam products, but FSIS officials point out that sulfite is an irritant that can cause cramps and convulsions as well as severe allergic reactions.

"People who have any Velasam products without code dates or with code dates prior to Jan.8, 1996 are advised to return the merchandise to the place of purchase," said Michael R. Taylor, USDA's acting under secretary for food safety.

Consumers with questions about the recall may 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. This number also provides access to a telecommunications device for the deaf and the hearing impaired.

FSIS is responsible for ensuring that meat and poultry products are safe, wholesome, and accurately labeled.