Some popular brands of salami and other packaged Italian meats have been recalled due to risk of salmonella contamination. The FDA categorizes this as a Class I Recall… Health Risk = High. The recall is in effect in 8 states, including North Carolina. At least 184 people have been sickened from these products, and 35 people had to be hospitalized.
Salmonella is not to be taken lightly. Infection with the salmonella bacteria can cause diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Although most people will recover within a week, severe infection can cause significant complications, including infection of the heart (endocarditis) or bones (osteomyelitis). In rare circumstances, the infection can lead to death.
If you eat packaged Italian meats from Boar’s Head, Black Bear, Dietz & Watson, or Daniele, this recall may affect you. On the package look for the USDA mark of inspection, which will have an Establishment Number. The following numbers are recalled:
EST. 54
EST. 9992
For more information, see the Recall Release distributed by the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.
(http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_006_2010_Release/index.asp)