Frozen Chicken Products Recalled for Possible Salmonella Contamination

WASHINGTON The Hain Celestial Group Inc, a West Chester, Penn. firm, is recalling approximately 983,700 pounds of frozen chicken entrees in commerce because they contain peanut products recalled by the Peanut Corporation of America, which is the focus of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigation. The following products are subject to recall: * 10 ounce cartons of Ethnic Gourmet Chicken Pad Thai, which contains peanut sauce and peanuts as garnish. UPC code # 18687-70054, lot codes WC7 and WC8 * 12 ounce bowls of Trader Mings Spicy Kung Pao Chicken, which contains crushed and whole peanuts as garnish. UPC code 0379526, lot codes WC7M and WC8 The shipping containers bear the establishment number P-9744 printed on the side of the boxes. The problem was discovered in response to the widespread recall involving all peanut products produced since 2007 by the Peanut Corporation of Americas Blakely, Ga. facility because they may be linked to a nationwide outbreak of salmonellosis. FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of these frozen chicken products These products were identified as recalled in a news release dated Jan. 31, 2009 by the FDA because of possible contaminated peanut products produced by the Peanut Corporation of America. Information about the FDA recall is available at: www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/hain01_09.html These chicken products were distributed to retail establishments throughout the United States. Based on product shelf life, these products could still be in consumers freezers and it is important that consumers look for and return or discard and do not eat these products if they find them. The FDA, State public health departments and FSIS also continue an investigation into the multi-state illness outbreak. Consumers with questions about the recall may contact the companys toll-free number at (800)739-4838. Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. Salmonella infections can be life-threatening, especially to those with weak immune systems, such as infants, the elderly and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy. The most common manifestations of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within eight to 72 hours. Additional symptoms may be chills, headache, nausea and vomiting that can last up to seven days.