Cargill has worked with the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to announce this recall. They are recalling just over 106,134 kilograms (~212,268 pounds) of liquid egg products. The recall impacts any recalled products that could potentially contain sodium hypochlorite, an ingredient commonly associated with bleach. Though the possibility of contamination was the cause for alarm, Cargill promised consumers that the recall was a voluntary, precautionary measure and should not cause concern.
Products subject to the Class I recall, distributed by Cargill Kitchen Solutions, were shipped to broadline distributors in Ohio and Texas. These items were only meant for foodservice use across multiple states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois and Iowa. There is a chance that they haven’t been shared widely across the country. The impacted products include a variety of egg replacements. They range from Egg Beaters Original Liquid Egg Substitute to Cage-Free Original Liquid and Frozen Egg Substitutes to Bob Evans Better’n Eggs made with Real Egg Whites. They are distributed in 32-oz. cartons and show the establishment number “G1804.”
“These products do not pose a health concern if consumed as noted by the USDA. And no illnesses or injuries associated with this product have been reported,” – Cargill
The matter was only alerted to when FSIS had received information about the possible contamination. Following the four-month investigation, FSIS scientists concluded that the consumption of the implicated products is very unlikely to result in adverse health effects.
“The problem was discovered when FSIS received a tip about the potential contamination of these products,” – FSIS
“After conducting an investigation and thorough assessment of the contents of the cleaning solution, FSIS scientists concluded that use of this product should not cause adverse health consequences, or the risk is negligible, resulting in a Class III recall.” – FSIS
Cargill emphasized its commitment to consumer safety by setting up a hotline for inquiries related to the recall.
“As food and consumer safety is top priority, we have set up a consumer hotline to answer any questions regarding the recall at 1-844-419-1574,” – Cargill
Consumers who want more information or advice about the recall can check the FSIS website.
“Although FSIS does not expect any adverse health effects for Class III recalled products and there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products, anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.” – FSIS
