Pistachio products sold by Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, the second largest pistachio processor in the U.S., are being investigated following an outbreak of salmonella.
By Ellie Duncan
The company has issued a voluntary recall this week involving over one million pounds of its products as it faces investigation by the FDA and the California Department of Health.
The recall affects bulk roasted inshell and roasted shelled pistachios shipped on or after September 1, 2008.
So far, several illnesses have been reported by consumers, although it is not yet known whether any of the strains of salmonella found in the products are linked to the outbreak.
The FDA said the investigation is ongoing.
TAKING ACTION
Kraft Foods was the first to recognise that one of its products was contaminated with salmonella, and identified Setton as the source.
Setton has said it is taking “aggressive action” which should prevent the need for any further product recalls.
The FDA has advised that consumers avoid eating pistachio products until further information is available.