It's been a scary few months in the United States, as health concerns grow over two different waves of a salmonella outbreak in 2015 have occurred, with the latest one seeing frozen chicken companies recalling their products to prevent possible spreading of the bacteria Salmonella enteriditis.
Both Barber and Aspen foods have recalled their chickens after the multi-state salmonella outbreak in 2015 has already seen 11 people ill over having consumed infected chicken, after a few weeks back the country also saw a similar warning about eggs in a wide outbreak that currently has the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety Inspection Service working together.
According to CNN, this new salmonella outbreak in 2015 has already sickened people in three different states: Minnesota, Oklahoma and Wisconsin, some of whom have been hospitalized over major concerns for their current health status.
This salmonella outbreak in 2015 has prompted Barber Foods to recall 1.7 million pounds of their chicken products, namely frozen, raw and stuffed ones, to avoid further tragedy during this nationwide food crisis.
However, the products recalled weren't only sold across the United States, but also to Canada; this followed an earlier July 2 recall of a smaller sample of products.
KTLA reports that Aspen Foods is similarly recalling some of their own products, mostly frozen chicken, in the midst of this salmonella outbreak in 2015, particularly those labeled as "best if used by" dates between July 14, 2016 and Oct. 10, 2016.
The CDC's website shows some of the most important ways to prevent infection of this potentially deadly bacteria:
- Cook poultry, beef and eggs thoroughly - special care to food made for children, the elderly and those with immunity deficiencies.
- Avoid direct contact between reptiles and children, the elderly and those with immunity deficiencies.
- Wash hands, utensils and kitchen surfaces with soap after they've touched any of the above.
- Do not manage children at the same time as handling raw poultry or meat.
- Don't be afraid to send back uncooked meals when served at a restaurant.
- For infants, breastfeeding prevents salmonella, as it builds defenses for small babies.
Be careful during the salmonella outbreak in 2015 and cook chicken and eggs thoroughly!