6,900 Pounds of Hot Dogs Have Been Recalled in Two States: What to Know
One of the summer’s iconic foods is facing the heat—and not from the grill. On July 15, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced a significant recall involving 6,900 pounds of hot dog products from AW Farms, a meat processing company based in Argillite, Kentucky. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the hot dogs were not federally inspected before production. While there have been no reports of health concerns regarding consumption, the products were sent to hospitality locations in the Great Lakes region of the United States.
What were the details in the hot dog recall?
According to FSIS, the recalled hot dog products include various types of ready-to-eat hot dogs produced since May 30, 2024, with a shelf-life of 45 days. The specific products affected by the recall are:
“FRENCH CITY FOODS 6” 12-1 HOTDOGS: These hot dogs are packed in 10-lb. boxes containing two 5-lb. vacuum-packed packages. The label includes "PACKED ON" dates since May 30.
“PORK, BEEF, DEXTROSE, SALT, SUGAR MAPLE GEO BROWN ALL MEAT HOTDOGS”: These frozen hot dogs are also packed in 10-lb. boxes containing two 5-lb. vacuum-packed packages, with "PACKED ON" dates since May 30.
“GEO BROWN ALL BEEF HOTDOGS”: Like the other products, these frozen hot dogs are packed in 10-lb. boxes containing two 5-lb. vacuum-packed packages, marked with "PACKED ON" dates since May 30.
All recalled products bear the establishment number “EST. 47635” inside the USDA inspection mark. They were distributed to restaurant and hotel locations in Ohio and West Virginia.
What prompted the hot dog recall?
The problem was first identified after a state public health partner alerted FSIS to investigate the products. Upon further inspection, FSIS determined that the hot dog products were indeed produced and distributed without “the benefit of federal inspection,” a crucial step in ensuring food safety and compliance with federal regulations.
As of now, no confirmed reports have been made of adverse reactions linked to consumption of the hot dogs. However, FSIS stated that it is “concerned that some products may be in restaurants’ or hotels’ refrigerators or freezers.” The agency has issued a strong advisory: “Restaurants and hotels are urged not to serve these products. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.”
What does this mean for me?
FSIS advises anyone who may have concerns about a potential reaction to contact their healthcare provider immediately. The agency stated it continues to ensure that all potentially affected products are removed from commercial sites and that steps are taken so they are no longer available to consumers. As of July 17, the current retail list for recalled hot dog products in West Virginia includes specific Dairy Queen and Paul’s Exxon locations.
Even if you do not live in the affected states, it's important to practice safe food handling with ready-to-eat hot dogs. First, store them at the correct temperatures and heat them thoroughly before eating to kill any potential bacteria. Next, always check labels for proper inspection marks and expiration dates. If you believe you have purchased a recalled hot dog product, do not consume it. Instead, return it to the place of purchase for a refund or dispose of it safely to prevent any health risks.
If you want more information about the hot dog recall or to report any health concerns, you can visit the FSIS website. Additionally, it’s best to keep up to date with the agency’s regular updates and guidance on all food safety practices and recalls.
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