Whey Powder Supplier In Salmonella Recalls Named By FDA

After Mondelez International, Pepperidge Farm, and Flowers Foods Inc. all voluntarily recalled products due to possible salmonella contamination from whey powder used in their products, the Food and Drug Adminstation has announced that the same supplier was the source of concern in all three cases. A public statement from FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb explained that Associated Milk Producers Inc. supplied the possibly tainted whey powder that may have been used in 16 varieties of Ritz crackers, four kinds of Goldfish crackers, and Swiss rolls distributed under the Baker's Treat, Mrs. Freshley's, Market Square, and Great Value brands.

The agency's statement stressed that no illnesses had been reported and that the recalls were initiated "out of an abundance of caution." But the statement also indicates that the agency is working to identify other manufacturers who may have received suspect whey powder from Associated Milk Producers. "As there are likely other food products made by other manufacturers that also use this common ingredient, there may be other recalls initiated in the coming days," the statement reads.

The FDA commissioner stated that the U.S. Department of Agriculture is working with Pinnacle Foods Inc. on a health alert for Hungry Man products that may also contain whey powder tainted with salmonella.

"Our staff is actively engaged in this investigation and we take this very seriously. We know that these are products that are widely eaten by consumers, including children. That's, in part, why we are taking steps to intervene early on this potential risk, and why we will be communicating regularly with the public to provide information and updates on this issue."

The Daily Meal has contacted Associated Milk Producers Inc. for a comment on the matter.

The best way to avoid contamination is to throw out any products that are subject to a recall or return them to their point of purchase. If you had stored these products in a seperate container, wash them thoroughly with hot water and antibacterial soap. 

Salmonella poisoning can cause diarrhea, fever, chills, and abdominal pain. Most people recover in four to seven days without medical treatment, but young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems may experience more severe reactions that could result in death. Salmonella is just one of the seven ways that a restaurant can make you sick.