New Zealand
Foodstuffs Own Brands Ltd is recalling various Pams frozen berry products as a precaution because of a possible link to recent cases of Hepatitis A. The products are being removed from New World, Pak’n Save and Four Square stores nationwide, and from Trents and Raeward Fresh stores in the South Island. The products under recall were identified through the course of New Zealand Food Safety’s ongoing investigation.
The recalled products are:
- Pams Frozen Mixed Berries 500g.
- Pams Frozen Two Berry Mix 1kg.
- Pams Frozen Two Berry Mix 750g.
- Pams Frozen Smoothie Berry Mix 500g.
- Pams Raspberries 500g.
- Pams Raspberries 350g.
The New Zealand Food Safety investigation into the source of the illness continues and existing advice to heat treat all frozen berries remains. There are currently 12 Hepatitis A cases in the community linked to the consumption of frozen berries. 7 of the 12 cases have been hospitalized.
The recalled products contain berries from Serbia and were reported as eaten by most of the people who have become sick. In the meantime, as an additional precaution, other frozen berry importers have decided to place on hold other berries which can be traced back to Serbia while the investigation continues.
People who have these products at home should not eat them raw. Bringing them to the boil will make them safe, or they can be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.
New Zealand Food Safety’s advice to consumers:
- Briefly boil frozen berries before eating them, or if you have a thermometer at home, ensure cooking temperatures exceed 85 degrees Celsius for 1 minute. Heated berries can be safely refrozen for later use.
- If you microwave berries, you should stir at half-way through the cooking process to make sure they are cooked through. Microwave’s settings will vary, the important thing is to ensure the berries reach boiling.
- Wash your hands before eating and preparing food.
If you are experiencing Hepatitis A symptoms like fever, jaundice, nausea, clay-colored stool, dark urine, malaise, abdominal discomfort, or vomiting, it is important to report it. It can help to detect and resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.
Source:
www.mpi.govt.nz
