WASHINGTON, Dec. 28, 2001 –Sampco, Inc., a
Chicago, Ill., import firm, is voluntarily recalling approximately 151,200
pounds of imported Brazilian canned corned beef that is incorrectly
labeled, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection
Service announced today.
The products subject to recall are 12 ounce cans of "Hormel
Corned Beef Product of Brazil." The bottom of each can is embossed
with "BRASIL INSPECIONADO 3031 S.I.F." The product was produced
between May 5 and July 17, 2001, and distributed to retail establishments
in Puerto Rico.
The product may contain edible or inedible beef by-products that are
not declared on the label.
"FSIS ensures that meat and poultry products are safe, wholesome,
and accurately labeled," said Margaret Glavin, acting FSIS
administrator. "Some of the ingredients found in this product are
prohibited in the United States. We urge consumers to return the product
to the point of purchase."
The problem was discovered during a routine FSIS re-inspection at
import. Brazilian establishment #3031 has been audited by the Brazilian
government. The establishment has been de-listed by the Brazilian
government and can no longer export to the United States.
FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with
consumption of this product. Anyone concerned about an illness should
contact a physician.
Media and consumers with questions about the recall may contact David
Morrison, company president, at (312) 346-1506.
Consumers with food safety questions can phone the toll-free USDA Meat
and Poultry Hotline at l-800-535-4555. The hotline can be reached from l0
a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday, and recorded food
safety messages are available 24 hours a day.
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