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| To: | Health Commissioners, Environmental Health Directors, Nursing Directors, ODA Food Safety Specialists, and Other Interested Parties |
| Subject: | Recall Announcement (ODA/ODH) 2004-07 |
| Date: | February 25, 2004 |
| Media Contact: | Paul Panico, ODA Chief of Food Safety, (614) 728-6250 |
Schratter Foods Inc. Recalls ILE DE FRANCE 4 ˝ Oz. Tins of Brie and
Camembert Cheeses Because of Possible Health Risk
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Fairfield, NJ -Schratter Foods Inc. of Fairfield, New Jersey, is recalling all packages of ILE DE FRANCE brand Brie Soft Ripened Cheese in
tins, Net Wt 4.5 oz. (125 grams), and ILE DE FRANCE brand Camembert Soft Ripened Cheese in tins, Net Wt. 4.5 oz. (125 grams), because they have the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum,
a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use these products even if they do not look or smell spoiled. Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision, and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention. The imported cheeses were sold to distributors and retail stores nationwide. ILE DE FRANCE Brie and Camembert are individually packed in hermetically-sealed aluminum tins which are packaged within individual consumer-size boxes. All date codes (“Best Before”) are being recalled. No illnesses have been reported to date. The recall was prompted after routine import sampling by the FDA revealed that these products are considered low acid canned foods (LACF) and the labeling failed to bear a “Keep Refrigerated” statement, and that the foreign manufacturer failed to provide proper documentation for its manufacturing process to the agency. The company has ceased distribution of these products. Consumers who have purchased the affected imported Brie and/or Camembert Cheeses in tins are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-201-641-6851.
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