Taylor’s Sausage Inc. has recalled 74 pounds of ready-to-eat Landjaeger sausage. The recall affects products sold in California and Oregon.
Routine testing revealed undeclared soy in the sausages. This recall highlights the importance of accurate allergen labeling in food products.
Undeclared Soy Allergen Prompts Action
Soy, one of nine major allergens, was not listed on the product label. The FDA requires clear labeling of these nine allergens on all food products.
Soy allergies affect approximately 0.4% of children and 0.3% of adults in the U.S. Accurate labeling is crucial for consumer safety and informed purchasing decisions.
Affected Product Details and Identification
The recalled product is “TAYLOR’S Sausage Hot LANDJAEGER” in 12-pack units. Packages bear lot code 23342-2 and establishment number 6172.
The use-by date is December 8, 2025. Consumers should check their purchases against these identifiers to determine if they have the recalled product.
FSIS Urges Consumer Caution
The Food Safety and Inspection Service advises consumers to discard or return the product. No adverse reactions have been reported as of the announcement.
FSIS conducts recall effectiveness checks to ensure proper notification. In 2022, FSIS oversaw 47 recalls, affecting approximately 22.5 million pounds of food products.
Nine Major Food Allergens Designated
The FDA recognizes nine major food allergens. These include wheat, milk, tree nuts, peanuts, sesame, egg, crustaceans, fish, and soy.
Food allergies affect an estimated 32 million Americans. Proper labeling helps prevent allergic reactions and potential health emergencies.
Common Symptoms of Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions can manifest through various symptoms. These may include itching, rashes, hives, and gastrointestinal distress.
Respiratory symptoms like coughing or wheezing can also occur. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, necessitating awareness and prompt action.
Anaphylaxis: A Life-Threatening Emergency
Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially fatal allergic reaction. Symptoms include throat swelling, difficulty breathing, and sudden blood pressure drop.
Approximately 200,000 emergency room visits occur annually due to food allergies. Immediate medical attention is crucial for anaphylaxis cases.
Food Allergen Labeling Laws
The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act became law in 2004. It mandates clear allergen labeling on packaged foods.
The FASTER Act added sesame as the ninth major allergen in 2021. These laws aim to protect consumers and provide clear information.
Landjaeger: A Traditional Sausage Type
Landjaeger is a semi-dried sausage of German and Austrian origin. It’s traditionally made from beef, pork, lard, and spices.
The sausage gained popularity as a portable food for travelers. Its name translates to “country hunter” in German, reflecting its history as a convenient, long-lasting food.
Food Recall Statistics and Trends
The FDA and USDA oversaw 427 food recalls in 2022. Undeclared allergens were the leading cause of these recalls.
The average food recall affects 165,000 pounds of product. Timely recalls help prevent foodborne illnesses and allergic reactions.
