SoCal Mexican Food Supplier Recalls Half Million Pounds of Beef
Chaparros Mexican Foods Inc., based in Vista, California, is recalling approximately 568,503 pounds of beef products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, according to a release from the United States Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service.
The products, the release said, were formulated with hydrolyzed milk protein, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.
Inspectors from the FSIS discovered the problem while checking product labels in preparation for regular scheduled sample testing for pathogens.
Neither the FSIS nor the company have received any reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of the products involved in the recall.
The following products are subject to the recall:
- 100 lb. cases containing 20lb. bags, five per case, diced beef for broiling labeled "Alberto's Meat Shop";
- 100 lb. cases containing 20lb. bags, five per case, sliced beef for broiling labeled "Alberto's Meat Shop";
- 60 lb. cases containing beef trim labeled "Alberto's Meat Shop";
- 100 lb. cases containing 20lb. bags, five per case, beef chorizo labeled "Alberto's Meat Shop."
The products in question were produced between Nov. 1, 2013 and May 15, 2014. The products were sold to restaurants in Southern California, as well as to a federally inspected processing facility.
The production date is stamped in black ink on the outer case label. When available, the retail distribution list will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.
Personnel from the FSIS routinely conduct recall effectiveness checks to verify steps are taken to make sure the involved product is no longer available to consumers.
Consumers with food safety questions can access "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov or via smartphone at m.askkaren.gov.
As well, the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline is available in both English and Spanish at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854), from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.