As reported the second-largest pistachio processor in the United States has recalled one million pounds of pistachio products. The New York Times reports the pistachios were sent in 1,000 to 2,000-pound bags to about three dozen wholesalers who repackaged them and resold them to other customers.
The Food And Drug Administration claims on their website that their California inspectors identified the contaminated pistachios. But according to the Times it was Kraft — during a routine analysis — who discovered the salmonella.
The FDA Alert reports in part:
Because the pistachios were used as ingredients in a variety of foods, it is likely this recall will impact many products. In addition, the investigation at the company is ongoing and may lead to additional pistachio product recalls. The contamination involves multiple strains of Salmonella. Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Thus far, several illnesses have been reported by consumers that may be associated with the pistachios. It is not yet known whether any of the Salmonella strains found in the pistachio products are linked to an outbreak. The FDA is conducting genetic testing of the samples to pursue all links.
As I and others have noted, if the FDA were doing their job many or most of these recalls would be unnecessary. In this case, Kraft has done their work for them.