Shoppers may want to check their refrigerators and freezers after more than 167,000 pounds of raw meat products were recalled nationwide.
Star Meat Delivery Inc. is recalling approximately 167,639 pounds of raw pork, beef, and goat products that were produced without federal inspection.
They also carry labels with a false U.S. Department of Agriculture inspection mark, according to the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service.
Federal officials said any product bearing the false establishment number “EST. 1363” should be considered misbranded and unsafe to eat.
FSIS classified the recall as Class I, its highest-risk category, meaning there is a reasonable probability that eating the product could cause serious adverse health consequences.
The recalled meat was shipped to A&D Foods, a distributor in Georgia, before being further distributed to retail and restaurant locations nationwide.
No confirmed illnesses or injuries had been reported when the recall was announced.
Shoppers should check recalled meat products
The recalled raw pork, beef, and goat products were produced on various dates before Sept. 22.
The products were distributed in bulk under the A&D Foods label and include goat cuts, ribeye, beef chuck, oxtail, short ribs, ground pork, pork chorizo, pork chops, pork feet, pork ribs, and other meat products.
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The meat was vacuum-sealed and packed into cardboard boxes for shipment.
However, individual packages bought by consumers may not show the original A&D Foods packaging because retailers may have added their own pricing and safe-handling labels, according to FSIS.
That could make the false establishment number “EST. 1363” particularly important for consumers trying to identify recalled products.
Look at the complete list here.
Why was the meat recalled?
The products were recalled because they were produced without federal inspection.
USDA inspection is required for raw meat sold in interstate commerce and is designed to verify that products meet federal safety, wholesomeness, and labeling requirements.
FSIS said food produced without inspection may contain undeclared allergens, harmful bacteria, or other contaminants that could put consumers at risk.
Consumers are advised not to eat the recalled products.
FSIS is urging shoppers to throw the meat away or return it to the place of purchase. Restaurants and retailers should also stop selling or serving affected products.
Federal officials said they are concerned some of the recalled meat may still be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers, as well as at restaurants and retailers.
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