Recall Announcement (ODA/ODH) 00-003

Date: January 24, 2000

Listed below is a press release issued by the California Department of Health Services dated January 21, 2000. It pertains to a nationwide recall of food products (5-layer Fiesta Dip) that may be contaminated with shigella bacteria.

STATE HEALTH DIRECTOR ADVISES CONSUMERS NOT TO EAT THREE VARIETIES OF 5-LAYER FIESTA DIP

SACRAMENTO-Consumers are being advised not to eat "Senor Felix's 5-Layer Fiesta Dip," "Delicioso 5-Layer Fiesta Dip," or "Trader Joe's 5-Layer Fiesta Dip," because the products may be contaminated with shigella, a potentially harmful bacteria, State Health Director Diana Bonta said today. Health authorities are investigating one confirmed and seven suspected cases of shigellosis in San Diego County that have been linked to consumption of these products. Of these cases, two have been hospitalized. Consumers who have purchased these products should avoid eating them and return them to their place of purchase.

The products were distributed nationwide, primarily through Costco and Trader Joe's. The manufacturer of the products, Senor Felix's of Baldwin Park, has issued a voluntary recall. Approximately 95 percent of the unpurchased products have been recalled.

"Senor Felix's 5-Layer Fiesta Dip" was sold in 16-ounce, 20-ounce, and 41-ounce containers. "Delicioso 5-Layer Fiesta Dip." was sold in 33-ounce containers. "Trader Joe's 5-Layer Fiesta Dip" was sold in 20-ounce containers. The recall applies to all products prepared without preservatives with an expiration date of Feb. 9 or earlier, and all products prepared with preservatives with an expiration date of Mar. 4 or earlier. The dip consists of layers of black bean, fresh salsa, fresh guacamole, nacho and sour cream.

Shigellosis is an acute bacterial disease that's characterized by fever, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea that may be bloody. Untreated, the illness usually lasts four to seven days. Individuals who have consumed any of these products and are experiencing these symptoms should contact their physician.

Consumers with questions may phone the Senor Felix's hotline at 1-800-807-7335.