Nearly 1.6M pounds of hot dogs, bacon and other meats recalled nationwide

Nearly 1.6 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products, including hot dogs, bacon, brisket, and ham, are being recalled across the United States due to concerns over potential "temperature abuse" during storage, as announced by federal officials.

Kayem Foods Inc. has voluntarily recalled approximately 1,584,361 pounds of these food items, according to a statement from the Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) released over the weekend. FSIS has classified this recall at its highest level, indicating a "reasonable probability" that consumption of the affected products could lead to "serious, adverse health consequences or death."

The recalled meat and poultry products were distributed to retail and foodservice establishments nationwide, as well as to Hong Kong. The items involved in the recall were produced between March 31 and October 7 and carry establishment numbers "EST. M/P 7839," "EST. P 20935A," and "EST. M 9520," which can be found inside the USDA mark of inspection.

Among the items on the recall list are Kayem Beef & Pork Hot Dogs, Kayem Double Smoked Thick Cut Bacon, Kayem Slow Smoked Beef Brisket, Genoa Hot Ham, Al Fresco Roasted Pepper & Asiago Chicken Sausage, and Triple M Boneless Ham Steaks. Kayem Foods has provided a comprehensive nine-page list detailing all affected products.

The recall was initiated after the company received a complaint from a retailer regarding the temperature of the products upon delivery on October 1. Following this report, Kayem Foods conducted an investigation and found that several ready-to-eat meat and poultry items had been stored in a cooler at one of their warehouses that experienced temperature fluctuations.

Kayem attributed these temperature deviations to a malfunction in the cooling system at the warehouse. The company stated that it has resolved the issue and is proceeding with the recall as a precautionary measure.

To date, there have been no confirmed illnesses associated with the consumption of these products. However, anyone who has concerns about possible illness is encouraged to reach out to a healthcare provider.

FSIS has expressed concern that some of the affected products may still be present in consumers’ refrigerators. Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled items are advised not to eat them and should dispose of the products or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.