Zachary's Chocolate Covered Marshmallow Eggs recalled over possible salmonella contamination
Zachary Confections, Inc. is voluntarily recalling certain lots of its Zachary Chocolate Covered Marshmallow Eggs that were sold in Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin because they may be contaminated with salmonella.
"We are dedicated to manufacturing wholesome products for our customers," George Anichini, vice president of operations of Zachary Confections, said in a press release on the Food and Drug Administration website. "Consistent with that dedication, we are taking this voluntary action."
The candy manufacturer issued the notice after a random post-production test revealed a result suggesting that there was potential for contamination. The affected lots are packaged in white egg crates with purple, green and yellow lettering (pictured above). They have the specific case number of 1 00 75186 31797 3, the Unit UPC of 0 75186 15797 8 and are best before Feb. 14, 2012.
The specific code dates are D3245D, D3145E, F3145E, D3245E. The pertinent information can be found on the side panel next to the UPC bar code label.
When people get infected by the salmonella bacteria, they can get salmonellosis. The bacteria is usually transmitted to people when they eat food contaminated with animal fecal matter. Food can also be a carrier if it is handled by a person who was infected who did not wash their hands properly after they used the bathroom.
Symptoms include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. It can last four to seven days, and most people recover without additional treatment. However, the elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems may have a more severe bout from the bacteria that requires hospitalization.
Production at the company has been halted while the FDA and the company investigate the source of the potential contamination.
Consumers who have the affected products should return them to the store they were purchased. Any additional questions can be answered by Zachary Confections Customer Service, who can be reached at (765) 654-8356 between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm EST.
