Barber Foods recalls chicken products over Salmonella contamination
Barber Foods is recalling more than 1.7 million pounds of frozen, stuffed chicken products that may be contaminated with Salmonella.
The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) says at least six people in Minnesota and Wisconsin got sick after eating the products between April and late June. The recall was first announced on July 2 and initially involved about 58,000 pounds of Barber Foods chicken products; the recall is now being expanded after more cases of illness were reported.
The recall involves frozen, stuffed, raw chicken packaged in 6 individual pouches per box, in varieties including Chicken Kiev, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Chicken Tenders and Chicken Broccoli Cheese. A complete list is posted on the USDA's website. The products were manufactured between February 17 and May 20, 2015, and were sold at supermarkets across the U.S. and Canada.
Recalled packages have a use by/sell by date of April 28, 2016, May 20, 2016, or July 21, 2016, and a Lot Code number 0950292102, 0950512101, or 0951132202.
Salmonella is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness. Eating food contaminated with the bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps and fever, with symptoms usually beginning within 12 to 72 hours after exposure. Most people recover after about 4 to 7 days, but those with severe diarrhea may need to be hospitalized, and older adults, young children and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness.
The USDA warned consumers that raw chicken must be handled with care to avoid cross-contamination of other foods, kitchen surfaces and utensils. Cooking chicken throughly to a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit should kill Salmonella.
The USDA said consumers with questions can contact Barber Foods at (844) 564-5555.