Eco-Cuisine Recalls Products That May Be Contaminated with Salmonella

A Boulder, Colorado company is recalling a number of food mixes after being alerted that they may be contaminated with salmonella. The company, Eco-Cuisine, Inc., provides food service operators with a variety of food mixes. After notification by CHS Foods that ingredients used in these mixes had been recalled, Eco-Cuisine ceased production and distribution. The investigation into the cause of contamination by the FDA is continuing.

What is Salmonella?

Salmonella is bacteria that lead to an infection called Salmonellosis. In the United States, approximately 42,000 cases of Salmonellosis have been reported every year. This infection presents with abdominal cramps, fever, and diarrhea up to 3 days following infection. Most people recover after 4 to 7 days without treatment. Commonly located in the intestines, this infection can spread to the bloodstream. Death can occur if the victim does not start treatment with antibiotics. Children under five years old, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems are most at risk.

Food Poisoning Prevention

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), steps can be taken to prevent the spread of the Salmonella bacteria. These include:

• Thoroughly cooking meat and eggs.
• Do not eat raw eggs or food products containing raw or unpasteurized eggs and milk.
• Wash hands, work areas, and food preparation tools immediately after contact with raw meat or poultry.
• Wash hands before preparing or handling food.
• Wash hands before attending to infants.
• Avoid cross contamination of foods.

The CDC also recommends any food served in a restaurant that appears to be under cooked should be sent back to the kitchen. The CDC warns that care must be taken with small children around pets or other animals. Salmonella resides in the intestines of chicks and ducklings contaminating the entire surface of the animal. Reptiles also are likely to carry this bacteria. When in contact with pets or other animals, a good practice to adopt is frequent hand washing.

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