Salmonella in Tahini causes Recall
According to The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), salmonella was detected in Maranatha Brand Organic Raw Sesame Tahini. They have warned the public not to consume any of the products.
The affected product, MaraNatha brand Organic Raw Sesame Tahini, No Salt, a product of USA, is sold in 340 g jars bearing UPC 0 51651 09327 9 and Use By date 07/27/07 (July 27, 2007). This product has been distributed nationally.
So far there have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product.
Any food contaminated with Salmonella may not look or smell spoiled, however it can still cause illness. Consumption of food contaminated with this bacterium may cause salmonellosis, a foodborne illness. In young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems such as Aids patients, salmonellosis may cause serious and sometimes fatal infections.
In healthy people, salmonellosis may cause short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. Long-term complications may include severe arthritis.
The importers are voluntarily recalling (no choice) the affected product from the marketplace and hopefully the manufacturer involved improves its hygiene. The CFIA is currently monitoring the effectiveness of the recall.
After visiting their website, here’s what they say about the quality of their sesame.
“Our Sesame Tahini items are made with the highest quality sesame seeds. The seeds are mechanically hulled, then ground to a perfectly smooth texture. We produce Sesame Tahini in both Organic and Natural varieties to offer a choice to consumers since organic sesame seeds remain higher in price than conventionally grown ones. We also offer the flavor option of Raw or Roasted to provide a choice for discerning cooks and Tahini-lovers. Sesame Tahini is a key ingredient in many popular Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. It also provides an excellent base for dressings and dips.”
In the future they may need to modify the above statement and add it is tested and cleared for all pathogens including salmonella.
For more information, consumers and industry can call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
For information on Salmonella, visit the Food Facts web page at http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/concen/causee.shtml
For information on receiving recalls by e-mail, or for other food safety facts, visit www.inspection.gc.ca.
Media enquiries:
Shashi Kulkarni (English)
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Food Recall and Emergency Response
613- 368-1622 Linda LeBlanc (French)
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Food Recall and Emergency Response
613- 760-4112
