Hormel Foods is initiating a significant recall of nearly 4.9 million pounds of frozen boneless chicken products that were distributed to restaurants, cafeterias, and other food service outlets, as announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
The recall was prompted by multiple customer reports of metal fragments found within chicken breast and thigh products. An investigation revealed that the metal contamination originated from a conveyor belt utilized during the production process. Fortunately, to date, there have been no reported cases of illnesses or injuries related to the contaminated products.
The affected items, branded as Hormel Fire Braised chicken, were supplied to HRI Commercial Food Service, a distributor serving various establishments across the nation, within the time frame from February 10 to September 19. It is important to note that these products were exclusively sold to food service entities and not available directly to consumers.
The FSIS has issued a warning that some of the recalled products may still be stored in the freezers of hotels, restaurants, and cafeterias. They urge these establishments to dispose of the affected chicken items immediately. Hormel Foods has confirmed that it has contacted all customers who received the contaminated products and is addressing the situation accordingly.
For further inquiries regarding the recall, consumers can reach out to Hormel Foods through their official website or by calling their customer service line at 1-800-523-4635.
