Several federal agencies have issued warnings about potentially contaminated pork sold at Costco and Sam's Club.
Dried meat has been linked to a salmonella outbreak that has sickened dozens of consumers across the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said.
“Fratelli Beretta brand Antipasto Gran Beretta is sold in the 24-ounce size at Costco. According to the USDA, it's a twin pack (two 12-ounce trays).
“The Busseto brand Charcuterie Sampler is sold in the 18-ounce size at Sam's Club. Twin pack (two 9-ounce trays).
“All lot codes associated with both products are potentially contaminated. This product is no longer available at Costco and Sam’s Club.”
The package contained salami, prosciutto, coppa and sopressata dried meats.
They have facility number “EST.” 7543B” and/or “EST. According to the USDA, it is #47967” inside the USDA inspection mark or printed on the package.
The department's Food Safety and Inspection Service is “concerned that some of the products may be in consumers' refrigerators,” according to the release. “Consumers who have purchased these products are advised not to consume them. Please discard this product or return it to the place of purchase.”
The CDC reported that at least 47 consumers across 22 states are known to have become ill due to the outbreak, and 10 have been hospitalized. The first known illness occurred on November 20, 2023, with additional reports received until January 1.
According to the report, there were no deaths related to contamination.
Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps, with symptoms appearing anywhere from six hours to six days after eating a contaminated item.
CDC expands warning on pork meat trays as salmonella cases double https://t.co/bE9efTNlaQ
— Associated Press (@AP) January 19, 2024
Most people recover within 4 to 7 days without treatment, but the disease can be more dangerous for children under 5, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
The agency also advised consumers to use hot, soapy water or a dishwasher to wash surfaces and containers that may have come into contact with potentially contaminated meat.
The CDC advises consumers to contact their health care provider if they experience any of the following serious salmonella symptoms:
- Diarrhea and fever greater than 102°F
- Diarrhea that does not improve for more than 3 days
- bloody diarrhea
- Vomiting so much that you can't hold down liquids
- Symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth and throat, not urinating much, and feeling dizzy when standing up
According to NPR, both brands are owned by the same company, and a brand spokesperson said they were cooperating with the investigation but had “nothing to add beyond the information.” [the USDA’s] “Public health warning.”
This article originally appeared in The Western Journal.