Update: Al Kanater Tahini Recalled for Salmonella Contamination
Bensenville, Illinois-based International Golden Foods, Inc (IGF) is recalling certain lot codes of the Al kanater brand tahini [1] because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. This recall affects:
| Product Code | Product Description & Size | Lot # | UPC |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT1LB | Al kanater Tahini Sesame Paste 1 lb. (454 gr) | TT4N‐201127 | 6‐92551‐00002‐0 |
These products were distributed nationwide and are sold in 16 Oz. jars. The jars are labelled “Al kanater Tahini.” Lot codes are printed on the jar.
This recall began on November 30, 2021.
FDA Warning: Karawan Tahini, Halva May Be Contaminated with Salmonella
Jupiter, Florida-based Brodt Zenatti Holdings recalled Karawan Tahini and El-Karawan Tahini in 16-ounce plastic jars and 39-pound buckets after a pair of samples tested positive for salmonella, according to a recall notice issued Friday U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
FDA added Karawan Tahini and Halva to Import Alert 99-19, which designates products "that appear to be adulterated due to the presence of Salmonella, which allows the FDA to detain products without physical examination," the agency said.
The potentially contaminated foods are labelled as either “Karawan Tahini,” “El-Karawan Tahini,” or “Soco Tahini.” FDA is warning consumers not to eat these products.
Affected tahini was sold in bulk to retailers and restaurants across the U.S., and was also available for purchase at retail locations and online. The recalled tahini may have also been used in other food products sold to consumers, FDA said.
FDA is concerned that some potentially contaminated tahini may still be in consumers' pantries or food stocks, as the product has a very long shelf-life of 2 years or more, FDA said.
If you purchased any of the recalled tahini, you should not eat it, and either discard it immediately or return it to the point of purchase for a refund.
What’s the problem?
According to the FDA, there have been at least 2 cases of salmonella infection (salmonellosis) reported in New York, 1 in Massachusetts, and 1 in Texas linked to the recalled tahini. Of these, 1 person has been hospitalized to treat complications of their illness, the agency said.
The only other state Brodt Zenatti Holdings distributes to is Virginia, according to the recall notice, although the FDA says the suspect tahini was available online, as well.
What is Tahini?
Tahini is made from sesame seeds, and can be served as a stand-alone food or used to make numerous Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes including hummus, falafel, and baba ganoush.
Salmonella Treatment
Salmonella bacteria causes about 1.2 million illnesses and 450 deaths each year in the U.S., according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The bacteria is typically transmitted through contaminated food, but some simple preventative measures can keep you from getting sick.
Due to the fact that salmonella infections tend to be dehydrating, treatment focuses on replacing fluids and electrolytes. Severe cases may require hospitalization and fluids delivered directly into a vein (intravenous). Additionally, your doctor may recommend anti-diarrheals and antibiotics to treat salmonella.
FDA Recommendation
Brodt Zenatti has stopped importing and distributing the tahini pending results of the investigation, FDA said.
“Consumers should be aware that this product has a shelf life of two years and should check their homes for tahini with either label,” the agency said. “Consumers with this tahini in their home should not eat it and should discard it.”
Anyone with additional questions about the recall should contact Brodt Zenatti for more information, according to the FDA.
Update: Kareem Mart Recalls Tahina Treats for Salmonella Contamination
Garden City, Michigan-based Kareem Mart is recalling 1lb, 2lb, and 10kg packages of “Tahina” food treats over potential contamination with salmonella bacteria, according to an FDA Recall Notice [2] issued on 3/5/21. The recalled products were distributed in Mediterranean food stores in Michigan and Chicago, Illinois, from April 2020 to October 2020.
Tahini Sold in Michigan Recalled for Salmonella
Five Star Foods, Inc., a Garden City, Michigan establishment, is recalling 100 cases of Excellent Tahina 800 g and 100 cases of Excellent Tahina 400 g containers over potential contamination with salmonella bacteria, according to ClickOnDetroit [3]. The recalled tahini was distributed in Michigan, Ohio, New York, Florida, North Dakota, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Texas. To date, no salmonella infections or other illnesses have been associated with this recall.
Anyone concerned about a potential food poisoning illness should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Also read: Halva Recall Lawsuit
Get a Free Tahini Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
The Food Poisoning Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in tahini lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new salmonella infection cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you were diagnosed with salmonella food poisoning after eating recalled tahini, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit and our lawyers can help.
