Ventura Foods LLC has initiated a recall of over 3,500 cases of salad dressings following the discovery of foreign objects in the product. The California-based company identified black plastic planting material in the granulated onion ingredient used in several dressings.
The recall began on November 6 and was classified as a Class II recall by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on December 4. This classification indicates that the recalled product could potentially cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects, though the likelihood of severe health consequences is considered low.
The affected salad dressings include a variety of brands, with the following products listed:
– Italian Salad Dressing: 1 gallon / SKU: 7 67367 00518 4
– Creamy Poblano Avocado Ranch Dressing and Dip: 1 gallon / SKU: 7 34730 53243 1
– Ventura Caesar Dressing: 2,000 pounds / SKU: 00 026700 17360 8
– Pepper Mill Regal Caesar Dressing: 1 gallon / SKU: 0 93901 72607 0
– Pepper Mill Creamy Caesar Dressing: 1 gallon / SKU: 0 93901 78134 5
– Caesar Dressing (Costco Service Deli): 23.62 pounds / SKU: 0 26700 19376 7
– Caesar Dressing (Costco Food Court): 32 pounds / SKU: 0 26700 19376 7
– Hidden Valley, Buttermilk Ranch: 1 gallon / SKU: 0 26700 19192 3
While Hidden Valley Ranch products typically sold to consumers are not part of this recall, a specific one-gallon size intended for food service, which was never distributed, has been included in Ventura Foods’ voluntary recall.
The contaminated dressings were distributed to several retailers, including Costco and Publix, across 42 locations in multiple states such as Florida, New Jersey, Texas, and Virginia, along with one customer in Costa Rica. Following the recall announcement, Costco communicated to its customers regarding items affected by this issue on November 7, urging them to stop consuming the affected products and return them for a full refund.
As food safety remains a top priority, this recall serves as a reminder for consumers to stay informed about the products they purchase and consume. It is crucial for shoppers to check for any recall notices and verify the details of the products in their possession to ensure safety.