WASHINGTON, August 5, 2002 – Minh Food Corporation, a Pasadena, Tex., establishment, is voluntarily recalling approximately 390 pounds of frozen egg roll products that contain undeclared allergens (shrimp), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced today.

Shrimp are known allergens. Persons who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to shrimp run the risk of possible allergic reactions if they consume this product.

The products subject to recall are 13.7-ounce trays of "MINH EGG ROLLS, WHITE MEAT CHICKEN." Printed on each package is the production code, "382133B." Each package also bears the establishment number, "P-5630," inside the USDA seal of inspection.

"We want consumers to be aware of the recall," said William J. Hudnall, acting FSIS administrator. "People who are allergic or sensitive to shrimp may wish to check their freezers if they have the recalled product and return it to the point of purchase."

The products were produced on May 13, 2002 and distributed to retail stores in Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, Texas and Wisconsin.

The products were also distributed to company marketing and sales representatives in Alabama, Florida, Michigan, Missouri and North Carolina.

The problem was discovered by the company.

Media and consumers with questions about the recall may contact Howard Miller, Minh Foods vice president of public affairs and communication, at (507) 537-8700.

Consumers with other food safety questions can phone the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-800-535-4555. Hotline services are available in English and Spanish and can be reached from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time), Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.

FOOD ALLERGIES

Consumers who have a food allergy or severe food sensitivity should always read ingredient labels. In restaurants, they should ask whether an allergy-causing ingredient is in the food.

A food allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to a certain food, usually within minutes after the food has been consumed.

Symptoms may include throat swelling, trouble breathing, or a rash.

Strictly avoiding the allergy-causing food is the only absolute way to avoid a reaction.

Several foods account for 90% of allergic reactions. They include peanuts, tree nuts (walnuts, pecans, etc.), fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, soy, and wheat.

Persons who have a severe, life-threatening food allergy should always carry, and know how to administer, prescription epinephrine.