The following products are subject to recall:
10-oz. packages of "Richard's Hog Head Cheese" bearing establishment number "EST. 2257" inside the USDA mark of inspection and sell by dates "Use by 2 1 2013" or "Use by 3 20 2013"on each package.
The products subject to recall were produced on November 1, 2012, and December 19, 2012. The products were shipped to a distribution center for retail distribution in Louisiana and Southeastern Texas.
Hog head cheese products produced by EST. 2257 have been linked to a recent Salmonella Uganda cluster involving six case-patients from Louisiana. Working in conjunction with the Louisiana Office of Public Health, FSIS was able to link illnesses to the RTE pork products produced at this establishment based on epidemiologic and traceback investigations. Illness onset dates among the case-patients ranged from October 16, 2012 to November 10, 2012. Four case-patients confirmed eating the brand under recall. Leftover RTE product from consumers was not available for testing.
However, retail samples of like product from different production dates underwent testing last week, and four of nine samples tested positive for Salmonella. It is not known at this time if these samples are positive for the outbreak strain, but any finding of such will be made public by FSIS once it becomes available. FSIS is continuing to work with public health partners on the investigation.
Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. The most common symptoms of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days. In some persons, however, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. Older adults, infants, and persons with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop a severe illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact their health care provider.
Consumers and members of the media who have questions are encouraged to contact Fred Chu, the company's owner, at (713) 523-1751.
