According to the USDA recall notice, Tyson Foods stated “the plastic material ranged in size from 21mm in length and 6.5mm in diameter and may have come from a round, hard plastic rod used to connect a plastic transfer belt. The firm said the products pass through a metal detector, but the plastic is not detectable to this technology.”
Specifically, the recall pertains to 5-pound bags of fully cooked panko chicken nuggets, which were shipped to retailers across the country, with a “Use By” date of July 18, 2017. The case codes of the recalled nuggets are 2006SDL03 and 2006SDL33.
In addition, 20-pound bags of fully cooked chicken nuggets, sold for institutional use in Pennsylvania, are also being recalled. The bulk packages being recalled have a production date of July 18, 2016, and case code 2006SDL03.
The recall notice also said, “There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.” Consumers who have purchased the projects are also urged not to consume them, and to throw them away or return them to the place of purchase.
While the idea of plastic being found in food is unsettling, news of this manner is not a rarity for the industrial food industry. Just earlier this year, many popular retailers were discovered to be selling Parmesan cheese with wood pulp, and others turmeric with high levels of lead. If anything, it serves as another reminder of why it’s important to know your farmer and subsequently know your food.
We want to hear what you think! Are you surprised by this news? How do you think issues like this can be addressed or prevented in the future?
