Hold the Chicken! 11 Products Recalled Due to Salmonella Concerns
It's a bird, it's a plane, it's... a Salmonella scare? You bet. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a massive recall for 11 different chicken products due to potential Salmonella contamination. This isn't just a few random chickens – we're talking about a bunch of popular brands and products found in grocery stores nationwide.
What's the Deal with Salmonella?
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can make you really sick. Think fever, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting. It's no joke, and it can be dangerous, especially for kids, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
The Products on the Blacklist:
The recall includes a variety of chicken products, from raw chicken breasts to chicken nuggets and even chicken patties. These products were produced by several different companies and sold at major grocery chains.
The Brands to Watch Out For:
- Tyson Foods
- Pilgrim's Pride
- Perdue Foods
- Foster Farms
- Jennie-O
- Bell & Evans
What To Do If You Bought Recalled Chicken:
1. Check Your Fridge: Look for the product labels and see if your chicken is on the recall list. The USDA has published a complete list of affected products and their identifying numbers on their website.
2. Don't Eat It! If you have any of the recalled chicken, throw it away. Don't try to cook it or freeze it. The bacteria is still a risk, even if you heat it up.
3. Get in Touch: If you have any questions or concerns, contact the USDA's Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854). You can also find more information and resources on their website.
How to Prevent Salmonella Contamination:
- Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before, during, and after handling raw chicken.
- Keep It Separate: Don't cross-contaminate other foods by using the same cutting board or utensils for raw chicken.
- Cook It Thoroughly: Make sure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to kill any bacteria.
Bottom Line:
This is a serious situation, but it's easy to stay safe. Just follow the simple steps above and you'll be good to go. Remember, it's better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to your health.