The PLATTEr -- Your Source for Food Protection

Novartis Recall

2012-01-10T06:43:00.000-08:00

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm286240.htm?source=govdelivery
Novartis Consumer Health Inc. Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Certain Over-The-Counter Products Due to Potential Presence of Foreign Tablets or Chipped or Broken Tablets or Gelcaps

Consumer: 1-888-477-2403 Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time

List of products affected in this recall:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Parsippany, January 8, 2012 – Novartis Consumer Health, Inc. (NCH) announced today that it is voluntarily recalling all lots of select bottle packaging configurations of Excedrin® and NoDoz® products with expiry dates of December 20, 2014 or earlier as well as Bufferin® and Gas-X Prevention® products with expiry dates of December 20, 2013 or earlier, in the United States. NCH is taking this action as a precautionary measure because the products may contain stray tablets, capsules, or caplets from other Novartis products, or contain broken or chipped tablets.
The affected bottle sizes are attached to this release. The Novartis Consumer Health Inc. Lincoln, NE facility has voluntarily suspended operations and shipments to accelerate maintenance and other improvement activities at the site.
This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Mixing of different products in the same bottle could result in consumers taking the incorrect product and receiving a higher or lower strength than intended or receiving an unintended ingredient. This could potentially result in overdose, interaction with other medications a consumer may be taking, or an allergic reaction if the consumer is allergic to the unintended ingredient. NCH is not aware of adverse events reported with the issues leading to the recall.

These over-the-counter products were distributed nationwide to wholesalers and retailers.
Novartis Consumer Health Inc. is notifying its distributors and customers and is arranging for return of all recalled products. Wholesalers and retailers should stop distribution and return the affected product using Novartis Product Return information that is being provided to them.

Consumers that have the product(s) being recalled should stop using the product(s) and contact the Novartis Consumer Relationship Center at 1-888-477-2403 (available Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time) for information on how to return the affected products and receive a full refund. For more detailed information, consumers should visit our website at www.novartisOTC.com2 as of January 9, 2012. Consumers should contact their physician or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using these drug products.

Adverse events that may be related to the use of these products may be reported to FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting Program either online, by regular mail or by fax:

Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm3

Regular Mail: use postage-paid FDA form 3500 available at:

www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm4.

Mail to MedWatch, FDA, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787

Fax: 1-800-FDA-0178

These actions announced today, highlight the strong Novartis commitment to a single quality standard for the Novartis Group. The Novartis Group is making the necessary investments and committing the right resources to ensure these are implemented across the entire Novartis Group network. The high quality of Novartis products and operations has been critical to building the Novartis Group reputation over the past 15 years. Novartis Group is committed to ensuring the highest standard for patients who rely on our products and medicines.

Novartis Consumer Health Inc. plans to gradually resume operations at its Lincoln, NE site following implementation of planned improvements and in agreement with the FDA. The Novartis Consumer Health Inc. Lincoln, NE facility produces a variety of products mainly for the US market with annual sales value of less than 2% of Novartis Group sales. At this stage, it is not possible to determine when the plant will resume full operations and the full financial impact of these events. NCH will take a one-time charge currently estimated at USD 120 million in the fourth quarter of 2011, relating to the recalls and improvement work at the Lincoln, NE facility.

Novartis commitment to quality

The Novartis Group is fully committed to ensuring the quality, safety and integrity of its products. All Novartis Group companies have a clear commitment to patients and Health Authorities to ensure high quality standards for all our products and services. Novartis Group companies stand behind the safety and efficacy of their products, and are fully committed to maintaining high quality standards at all production sites in the US and around the world. All Novartis Group products are subjected to strict manufacturing, testing and monitoring standards. Where they fall outside the standards, Novartis Group companies take actions to correct the issue and may recall products as a precaution.

Disclaimer

The foregoing release contains forward-looking statements that can be identified by terminology such as “potential,” “will,” “committed,” “commitment,” “plans,” or similar expressions, or by express or implied discussions regarding the potential length of the shutdown of our Lincoln, NE production facility, regarding the potential for any further regulatory actions at the Lincoln, NE production facility, regarding the potential for any further quality issues arising at any additional Novartis manufacturing facilities, or regarding the potential financial impact of the Lincoln, NE facility shutdown. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Such forward-looking statements reflect the current views of management regarding future events, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. There can be no guarantee that our Lincoln, NE production facility will reopen at any particular time. Nor can there be any guarantee that actions described in this release will be the only regulatory actions required at the Lincoln, NE facility. Neither can there be any guarantee that further quality issues will not arise at any additional Novartis Group manufacturing facilities. Nor can there be any guarantee as to the potential financial impact on Novartis resulting from the shutdown of the Lincoln, NE production facility. In particular, management’s expectations could be affected by, among other things, unexpected regulatory actions or delays or government regulation generally; unexpected manufacturing issues, including unexpected inabilities to satisfy regulators’ requirements for the reopening of the Lincoln, NE production facility; competition in general; government, industry and general public pricing pressures; the impact that the foregoing factors could have on the values attributed to the Novartis Group's assets and liabilities as recorded in the Group's consolidated balance sheet, and other risks and factors referred to in Novartis AG’s current Form 20-F on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Novartis is providing the information in this press release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Novartis

Novartis Group provides innovative healthcare solutions that address the evolving needs of patients and societies. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis offers a diversified portfolio to best meet these needs: innovative medicines, eye care, cost-saving generic pharmaceuticals, preventive vaccines and diagnostic tools, over-the-counter and animal health products. Novartis is the only global company with leading positions in these areas. In 2010, the Group’s continuing operations achieved net sales of USD 50.6 billion, while approximately USD 9.1 billion (USD 8.1 billion excluding impairment and amortization charges) was invested in R&D throughout the Group. Novartis Group companies employ approximately 121,000 full-time-equivalent associates and operate in more than 140 countries around the world. For more information, please visit http://www.novartis.com5.

Novartis is on Twitter. Sign up to follow @Novartis at http://twitter.com/novartis6.

Novartis Media Relations
Julie Masow
Novartis Corporation
+1 212 830 2465 (direct)
+1 862 579 8456 (mobile)
julie.masow@novartis.com

Pamela McKinlay
Novartis Consumer Health, Inc.
+1 973 503 7337(direct)
+1 862 221 0151(mobile)
pamela.mckinlay@novartis.com
e-mail: us.mediarelations@novartis.com

Milicent Brooks
Novartis Consumer Health, Inc.
+1 973 503 7483(direct)
+1 973 479 2078 (mobile)
milicent.brooks@novartis.com
For Novartis multimedia content, please visit www.thenewsmarket.com/Novartis7

For questions about the site or required registration, please contact: journalisthelp@thenewsmarket.com.

Economic Burden from Health Losses Due to Foodborne Illness $77,000,000,000 A YEAR

2012-01-09T12:49:00.000-08:00

$77,000,000,000 A YEAR, click hear to read more.
http://www.marlerblog.com/uploads/image/s18.pdf

Repeat: rapid repeated reliable relevant food safety messages; repeat

2012-01-09T11:23:00.000-08:00

Want to increase food safety in your food establishment? REPEAT, REPEAT, REPEAT!
Click below to see what other food establishments do to improve safety and inspection scores.
http://barfblog.foodsafety.ksu.edu/blog/152427/12/01/08/repeat-rapid-repeated-reliable-relevant-food-safety-messages-repeat

The shortcut to food safety info sheets is located on the left side of our blog under Great Links! Check them out you might just see something you like.

2011-12-22T13:01:00.001-08:00

Digital greeting personalized with Smilebox

Press Announcements FDA confirms Listeria monocytogenes on Jensen Farms’ Rocky Ford-brand cantaloupes

2011-09-20T09:14:00.000-07:00

Press Announcements FDA confirms Listeria monocytogenes on Jensen Farms’ Rocky Ford-brand cantaloupes

National Food Safety Education Month is Here!!!

2011-09-02T13:09:00.001-07:00

We Participate

A look at foodborne illness outbreaks over the years.

2011-08-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

Watch the full episode. See more KCTS 9 Connects.

2011-08-24T09:56:00.000-07:00

If you are uninsured or have Medicaid call us and schedule your annual well woman exam for October and receive a free gift to promote breast cancer awareness.

2011-08-04T12:05:00.000-07:00

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Recall Alert

CLASS: I TYPE: I

Date: 8/4/2011

Subject: Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation - ground turkey products

Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation, a Springdale, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 36 million pounds of ground turkey products that may be contaminated with a multi-drug resistant strain of Salmonella Heidelberg, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced yesterday. The products subject to recall today bear the establishment number "P-963" inside the USDA mark of inspection, and include the following:

Ground Turkey Chubs - Use or Freeze by Dates of 2/20/11 through 8/23/11

• 10 lb. chubs of Honeysuckle White Fresh Natural Lean Ground Turkey with Natural Flavorings

• 10 lb. chubs of Unbranded Ground Turkey w/ Natural Flavoring 2 Pack

• 80 oz. (5 lbs.) chubs of Riverside Ground Turkey with Natural Flavoring

• 10 lb. chubs of Natural Lean Ground Turkey with Natural Flavorings

• 16 oz. (1 lb.) chubs of Fresh Lean HEB Ground Turkey 93/7

• 16 oz. (1 lb.) chubs of Fresh HEB Ground Turkey 85/15

• 16 oz. (1 lb.) chubs of Honeysuckle White 93/7 Fresh Ground Turkey with Natural Flavoring

• 4-1 Pound Packages of Honeysuckle White Ground Turkey with Natural Flavoring Value Pack

• 16 oz. (1 lb.) chubs of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Fresh Ground Turkey

• 48 oz. (3 lb.) chubs of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Fresh Ground Turkey 93% Ground Turkey - Use or Freeze by Dates of 2/20/11 through 8/23/11

• 19.2 oz. (1.20 lb.) trays of Honeysuckle White 93/7 Lean Ground Turkey

• 48 oz. (3.0 lbs.) trays of Honeysuckle White 93/7 Lean Ground Turkey Family Pack

• 19.2 oz. (1.2 lb.) trays of Fit & Active Lean Ground Turkey 93/07

• 19.2 oz. (1.2 lbs.) trays of Giant Eagle Ground Turkey Fresh & Premium Lean

• 19.2 oz. (1 lb 3.2 oz.) trays of Kroger Ground Turkey Fresh Lean 93/7

• 20 oz. (1.25 lb.) trays of Honeysuckle White 93/7 Lean Ground Turkey

Ground Patties

• 16.0 oz. (1 lb.) trays of Honeysuckle White Ground Turkey Patties with "Use by" or "Freeze by" dates of 2/20/11 through 8/23/11

• 16 oz. (1 lb.) trays of Kroger Ground Seasoned Turkey Patties Fresh 85/15, with "Use by" or "Freeze by" dates of 2/20/11 through 8/23/11

• 16.0 oz. (1 lb.) trays of Shady Brook Farms Ground Turkey Burgers with Natural Flavoring with the following "Use by" or "Freeze by" dates: 07/09/11, 07/10/11, 07/11/11, 07/15/11, 07/16/11, 07/21/11, 07/22/11, 07/24/11, 08/01/11, or 08/04/11

Frozen Ground Turkey - Production Dates of 2/20/11 through 8/2/11

• 16 oz. (1 lb.) chubs of Honeysuckle White Ground Turkey with Natural Flavoring

• 16 oz. (1 lb.) chubs of Spartan Ground Turkey

• 48 oz. (3 lb.) chubs of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Ground Turkey

• 40 lb. Bulk Packed Ground Turkey with Natural Flavoring for Food Service Use Only

When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on FSIS' website at www.fsis.usda.gov/FSIS_Recalls/Open_Federal_Cases/index.asp. Consumers with questions about this recall should contact Cargill's consumer relations toll free telephone number at 1-888-812-1646. Media with questions regarding the recall should contact Cargill's media contact Mike Martin at michael_martin@cargill.com or (316) 291-2126.

If you have any questions regarding this listserve, please contact Nancy Beyer at Nancy.Beyer@health.mo.gov of the Bureau of Environmenta

Papaya Recall

2011-07-27T06:40:00.000-07:00

3 cases in Missouri that are believed to be related to this recall.
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Recall Alert
Subject: Agromod Produce, Inc. Recalls Papaya Because Of Possible Health Risk

Consumer: (800) 385-7658

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 23, 2011 - Agromod Produce, Inc. of McAllen, Texas is recalling all Papayas, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
Fresh, Whole Papayas were distributed nationwide and to Canada through retail stores and wholesalers.

Agromod is recalling all Blondie, Yaya, Mañanita, and Tastylicious Brand papayas sold prior to July 23, 2011.

• Each Blondie Brand papaya can be identified by a blue and orange sticker label with green and white lettering on the fruit that states Blondie 4395 Mexico.

• The Yaya Brand Papayas can be identified by a yellow, red, orange, and green label with white, green and red lettering that reads Yaya Premium Papayas Yaya PLU-4395 Mexico.

• Each Mañanita Brand Papaya can be identified by a green, yellow and red sticker label that states Mexico Mañanita 4395.

• The Tastylicious Brand Papayas can be identified by a white and blue sticker with red and white lettering that states 4395 Tastylicious MEXICO.

The papayas were imported from Mexico and are possibly linked to 97 reported cases of Salmonella Agona, including 10 hospitalizations, in 23 states throughout the United States. Recent sampling by the FDA found the outbreak strain in two papaya samples collected at Agromod Produce, Inc. location in McAllen, TX and at the U.S. border destined for Agromod Produce, Inc. The shipments that tested positive with the outbreak strain were not distributed in the U.S. Distribution of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company continue their investigation as to the source of the problem.

This recall is being made with the knowledge of the US Food and Drug Administration.
Consumers who have purchased the Blondie, Yaya, Mañanita, and Tastylicious Brand Papayas are urged to return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (800) 385-7658, Monday – Friday 10:00 am – 5:30 pm CST. Web Address: www.agromodproduce.com. Email contact: Raul Mangaña: rmangana@agromodproduce.com. Telephone number: 956-618-2139.

2011-06-29T07:14:00.001-07:00

For Immediate Release: June 27, 2011 Media Inquiries: Stephanie Yao, 301-796-0394, stephanie.yao@fda.hhs.gov Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

Sprouts may contain Salmonella Enteritidis; pathogen different from the one in European outbreak

Fast Facts

• The FDA is warning consumers not to eat alfalfa sprouts or spicy sprouts from plastic bags labeled “Evergreen Produce” or “Evergreen Produce Inc.” The sprouts are possibly linked to 20 reported cases, including one hospitalization, of Salmonella Enteritidis in Idaho, Montana, New Jersey, North Dakota and Washington State. The elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness from Salmonella infection. Consumers, retailers and others who have alfalfa sprouts or spicy sprouts in plastic bags labeled “Evergreen Produce” or “Evergreen Produce Inc.” should discard them in a sealed container so people and animals, including wild animals, cannot eat them.

What is the Problem?

The FDA is advising consumers not to eat Evergreen Produce brand alfalfa sprouts and spicy sprouts. The sprouts are possibly linked to 20 reported cases, including one hospitalization, of Salmonella Enteritidis in Idaho, Montana, New Jersey, North Dakota and Washington State. The strain of S. Enteritidis is rarely seen at this frequency.

The pathogen associated with this outbreak is different from the pathogen associated with the outbreak in Europe.

What are the Symptoms of Illness/Injury?

Most persons infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts four to seven days, and most persons recover without treatment. However, some individuals may require hospitalization from severe diarrhea. Salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream and then to other body sites. It can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics. The elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to become severely ill from Salmonella infection.

Who is at Risk?

The elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to become severely ill from Salmonella infection. The bacterium can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in these vulnerable populations. Most healthy individuals recover from Salmonella infections within four to seven days without treatment.

What Do Consumers Need To Do?

Consumers should not eat alfalfa sprouts or spicy sprouts from plastic bags labeled “Evergreen Produce” or “Evergreen Produce Inc.” Consumers, retailers and others who have sprouts in plastic bags labeled “Evergreen Produce” or “Evergreen Produce Inc.” should throw them away in a sealed container so people and animals, including wild animals, cannot eat them.

Consumers who think they may have become ill from eating possibly contaminated sprouts should consult their health care providers.

Sprouts are a known source of foodborne illness. Since 1996, there have been at least 30 reported outbreaks of foodborne illness associated with different types of raw and lightly cooked sprouts. Most of these outbreaks were caused by Salmonella and E. coli. The FDA advises that children, the elderly, pregnant women, and persons with weakened immune systems should avoid eating raw sprouts of any kind (including alfalfa, clover, radish and mung bean sprouts). To reduce the chance of foodborne illness, FDA advises consumers to cook sprouts thoroughly and to request raw sprouts not be added to your food.

What Does the Product Look Like?

The possibly contaminated alfalfa sprouts and spicy sprouts are sold in plastic bags labeled “Evergreen Produce” or “Evergreen Produce Inc.”

The alfalfa sprouts are packaged in 4-ounce and 16-ounce plastic bags with pre-printed labels. They are also packaged in 1-pound and 5-pound plastic bags with stick-on labels.

The spicy sprouts are packaged in 4-ounce plastic bags with pre-printed labels and 1-pound plastic bags with stick-on labels.

Where is it Distributed?

To date, the FDA is aware of distribution in Idaho, Montana and Washington State. However, consumers and retailers in neighboring states should check the product label to ensure they are not eating or selling Evergreen Produce brand alfalfa sprouts or spicy sprouts.

What is Being Done about the Problem?

FDA is investigating the problem in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health agencies in those states where illnesses have occurred. The investigation is ongoing. The FDA is also working with state authorities to take appropriate action to address any product that may be remaining on the market.

Who Should be Contacted?
Consumers with questions about sprout safety should contact 1-800-SAFEFOOD.

2011-05-26T12:27:00.000-07:00

Eight Manufacturers Voluntarily Recall Pool and In-ground Spa Drain Covers Due to Incorrect Ratings

Pool owners and operators who have one of the recalled drain covers should contact the manufacturer to receive a replacement or retrofit.

CPSC recommends closing the pool until the drain cover is replaced. Dual main drain and gravity drainage systems, unless they are wading pools or in-ground spas, do not need to be immediately closed.

For more information, contact the Drain Cover Recall Hotline at 866-478-3521
or visit http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11230.html

2011-05-24T19:42:00.000-07:00

ServSafe Manger's Class will be offered on July 7th, 2011. Please visit www.plattecountyhealthdept.com for details and registration.

2011-04-26T12:55:00.000-07:00

Doctor's CarbRite Diet Issues Allergy Alert on Certain Chocolate Brownie Flavored Bars

Contact: (732) 545-3130

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 21, 2011 - Doctor’s CarbRite Diet of New Brunswick, NJ is voluntarily recalling all lots of the 2 oz. Chocolate Brownie Doctor’s CarbRite Diet Bar that are missing the allergen statement, “Allergy Alert: Made on equipment that also processes soy, milk, egg, peanuts and tree nuts”, due to possible peanut allergen cross-contamination. This allergy statement would be found at the end of the Ingredients list. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to a specific type of allergen (e.g., peanuts, tree nuts {chestnuts, brazil nuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, pine nuts, cashews}, eggs, and sulfites) run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

The recalled lots of the Chocolate Brownie Doctor’s CarbRite Diet Bar extend to all fifty states and the bar was offered through a variety of distribution channels including health food stores, gyms, and internet-based e-commerce sites.

This recall affects only the Chocolate Brownie flavor for Doctor’s CarbRite Diet Bars, those marked with the UPC # 0 39442 08112 4.

Chocolate Brownie Doctor’s CarbRite Diet Bars have been produced for over 10 years for sale without any serious adverse events or allergic reactions reported in the United States.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the certain Chocolate Brownie flavored bars were distributed in packaging that omitted the appropriate allergen warnings: “Allergy Alert: Made on equipment that also processes soy, milk, egg, peanuts and tree nuts.” Examination of current lots of Chocolate Brownie revealed that the correct allergen warnings do appear.

This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.

Consumers who purchased any one of the affected lot numbers in question are asked to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund or credit. Consumers with questions may contact Doctor’s CarbRite Diet directly at (732) 545-3130, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Eastern Standard Time.

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts Unilever Announces Recall of Skippy® Reduced Fat Peanut Butter Spread Due to Possible Health Risk Limited Recall of 6 Best-If-Used-By Dates

2011-03-08T07:11:00.000-08:00

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts Unilever Announces Recall of Skippy® Reduced Fat Peanut Butter Spread Due to Possible Health Risk Limited Recall of 6 Best-If-Used-By Dates

May be contaminated with Salmonella.

2011-02-28T12:20:00.000-08:00

The Platte County Health Department can provide education and resources, free to Platte County Child Care Centers/In Home Providers/Caregivers/Parents of children up to the age of 5. Participants will receive informational packets, an in-home or child care facility assessment along with home/center environmental action plans and asthma materials (AeroChambers, Nebulizer Tubing/Masks).

Participants will learn more about:

Signs and symptoms of asthma

What makes asthma worse

Reducing indoor asthma triggers

Using asthma medicines

Helping your child control asthma

Asthma Grant

Clay County Child Care Centers/Home Providers/Families (outside of KC city-limits) may contact Regina, Clay County Public Health Center at 816-595-4240 to set up an appointment for services available in Clay County.

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts f’real® foods Expands Voluntary Recall Of Strawberry Banana Smoothies Due To Potential Peanut Content

2011-02-15T09:49:00.000-08:00

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts f’real® foods Expands Voluntary Recall Of Strawberry Banana Smoothies Due To Potential Peanut Content

Waitress gets more than 7 years for tainted Mi Ranchito salsa

2011-02-10T11:24:00.000-08:00

KANSAS CITY, Kan. -- A former waitress at a Kansas Mexican food restaurant has been sentenced to more than seven years in federal prison for poisoning salsa.

Yini De La Torre pleaded guilty last year to twice adding a toxic pesticide to salsa at Mi Ranchito restaurant in Lenexa. She was sentenced Tuesday to 87 months in prison.

The 20-year-old says her husband told her to do it and threatened to hurt her if she spoke with investigators.

The first incident happened Aug. 11, 2009, when 12 diners got became ill after eating lunch. The second incident was Aug. 30, 2009, when 36 patrons became ill at dinner.

Federal prosecutors say sales at the six Mi Ranchito restaurants dropped by $250,000 in the two months after the poisoning.

Boil Water Advisory

2011-02-09T09:52:00.000-08:00

Please be advised: All customers with in the City Limits of Platte Woods North of 72nd Street on the East and West sides of I-29 and with in the City Limits of Lake Waukomis are under a Boil water Advisory due to a water main break.

Temperature Danger Zone

2011-02-09T09:30:00.000-08:00

The Temperature Danger Zone-Keep Hot Foods HOT & Cold Foods COLD
Temperature Danger Zone

Food Handler's Class

2011-02-04T14:13:00.000-08:00

Food Handler's Class

Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 2:00pm

Platte County Health Department, 1201 East Street, Parkville, MO 64152

Please register at 816.858.2412

Meat Trucks

2010-10-20T06:58:00.000-07:00

Regarding recent reports of people selling meat from the back of trucks in Platte County. It is important to verify the source of meat products that you buy, they should be labeled with a USDA or MDA stamp. If someone comes to your house in an unmarked truck trying to sell meat ask to see licenses, etc and check for the stamps and dates. If they can provide those they may be legitimate, if they cannot please notify the Platte County Health Department or the Missouri Department of Agriculture.

Restaurant Scam hits Platte County

2010-10-19T11:17:00.001-07:00

A scam on restaurant operators by people claiming to be health inspectors has been occurring around the U.S. and Canada. Today DHSS was informed that a restaurant in Missouri was contacted by someone claiming to represent “the State Health Department” and who also requested the restaurant’s “security code” and stated they would conduct a restaurant inspection the following day. The scam involves a series of phone calls asking for “security codes”, and sometimes, the caller threatens the restaurant owner will be fined for lack of cooperation. The calls are designed to pry personal information out of the restaurant operators. There are variations on the scam, but the calls generally involve requests for “security code” information. Some reports also suggest that the callers may have requested personal information, such as cell phone numbers. DHSS encourages any restaurant that receives a call from someone saying they are from the health department and asking for security codes, and saying they will be at the restaurant shortly to conduct an inspection, to not participate and to notify local law enforcement authorities. Public health inspectors do not typically announce their visits. Business owners who believe that they were targeted by a scam such as this should contact their local law enforcement authority.

Pictsweet Frozen Peas Recall

2010-10-19T07:07:00.000-07:00

The Pictsweet Company Announces a Voluntary Recall of Frozen Green Peas Due to Possible Health Risk
October 15, 2010 - The Pictsweet Company of Bells, TN today announced a voluntary recall of certain codes of store brand products containing frozen Green Peas after the company learned that some of the packages may contain glass fragments, which may cause injury if ingested.
http://www.dhss.mo.gov/FoodRecalls/PictsweetFrozenPeasRecall_10-18-10.html

Childcare Frequently Asked questions

2010-10-19T06:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a link for childcare providers to frequently asked questions about sanitation. Stay tuned for new handouts and checklists!
http://www.dhss.mo.gov/EnvironmentalChildCare/Faq.html

Restaurant Scam

2010-09-08T14:21:00.001-07:00

2010-08-30T07:42:00.001-07:00

September 2010: "High-Risk Customers: Serve Your Fare with Extra Care"

What is NFSEM?

National Food Safety Education Month is an annual campaign to heighten the awareness about the importance of food safety education. Each year, we offer training activities, posters, and more. Learn More http://www.servsafe.com/nfsem/default.aspx

2010-08-30T06:52:00.001-07:00

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) officials have been working jointly on an investigation of Morningland Dairy in Mountain View, Missouri after the California Department of Food and Agriculture notified Missouri late Thursday that cheese produced at the dairy contained traces of Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. At this point, the company has not issued a voluntary recall, but it is DHSS’ understanding that the firm will issue a press release soon stating that they are initiating a voluntary recall of all products produced by the company since January 2010 due to the potential presence of the above-named pathogens in products. No illnesses related to this pending recall have been reported to date.

Products included in the recall are all raw milk cheese labeled as Morningland Dairy and Ozark Hills Farm including products in various sizes of vac-sealed plastic in retail packages dating from Jan. 1, 2010 (code A10) through June 25, 2010 (code F250). Products were distributed nationwide, including 23 retail outlets in Missouri.

Local public health agencies with retail outlets that had received product have been notified by DHSS staff and requested to conduct effectiveness checks to assure product is removed from sale after the recall has been issued. For all other agencies, this update is for informational purposes.

Morningland Dairy has suspended the production and distribution of all products, as MDA, FDA and Morningland Dairy continue their investigation of what caused the problem.

Consumers with questions can contact MDA for further information or visit the firm’s website at www.morninglanddairy.com for updates.

Lunch Meat Recall

2010-08-25T07:10:00.001-07:00

Please read this recall!
http://www.dhss.mo.gov/FoodRecalls/LunchMeatRecall_8-24-10.html

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts Wright County Egg Expands Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Shell Eggs Because of Possible Health Risk

2010-08-23T06:59:00.000-07:00

Expanded Wright County Egg Recall
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts Wright County Egg Expands Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Shell Eggs Because of Possible Health Risk

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts Hillandale Farms of Iowa Conducts Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Shell Eggs Because of Possible Health Risk

2010-08-23T06:58:00.001-07:00

Hillandale Egg Recall
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts Hillandale Farms of Iowa Conducts Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Shell Eggs Because of Possible Health Risk

Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts Lubersk i Inc., Initiates Voluntary Recall of Large Fresh Shell Eggs Because of Possible Health Risk

2010-08-23T06:58:00.000-07:00

Luberski Inc Egg Recall.
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts Lubersk i Inc., Initiates Voluntary Recall of Large Fresh Shell Eggs Because of Possible Health Risk

2010-06-28T13:27:00.001-07:00

The Platte County Health Department will be closed on Monday July 5th in observance of the 4th of July holiday. Walk in times for online food classes will resume the following Monday. Call with questions.

Kellogg Company Voluntarily Recalls Select Packages of Kellogg's® Corn Pops®, Kellogg's® Honey Smacks®, Kellogg's® Froot Loops® and Kellogg's® Apple Jacks®

2010-06-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

Kellogg Company Voluntarily Recalls Select Packages of Kellogg's® Corn Pops®, Kellogg's® Honey Smacks®, Kellogg's® Froot Loops® and Kellogg's® Apple Jacks®

Iowa Firm Recalls Frozen Chicken Products Due To Possible Salmonella Contamination

2010-06-21T08:45:00.000-07:00

Iowa Firm Recalls Frozen Chicken Products Due To Possible Salmonella Contamination

Texas Firm Recalls Three Varieties Of "Spaghettios" With Meatballs That May Be Underprocessed

2010-06-21T08:44:00.000-07:00

Texas Firm Recalls Three Varieties Of "Spaghettios" With Meatballs That May Be Underprocessed

Online Food Classes

2010-06-08T11:12:00.000-07:00

Food classes are now online, visit http://www.plattecountyhealthdept.com/ the link to the online class is located at the top of the page. Remember Platte County, Clay County and Kansas City Food Handlers cards are good in those areas without additional transfers.

2010-04-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

Diapering on a table at a restaurant table is not a good idea......
http://foodsafetyinfosheets.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/4-8-101.pdf
You can also check out our website for ideas on how to prevent Fecal/Oral illnesses like the ones mentioned in the link.

2010-04-06T19:04:00.000-07:00

The Produce Safety Project at Georgetown University has published a report, “Health-Related Costs from Foodborne Illness in the United States,” www.producesafetyproject.org/admin/assets/files/PSP_FoodborneIllnessSummaryv2.pdf
which states that acute foodborne illnesses cost the U.S. an estimated $152 billion per year in health care, workplace, and other economic losses, with $39 billion of that attributable to foodborne illnesses associated with fresh, canned, and processed produce. Wow, those are some big numbers, keep that in mind when it's time to WASH YOUR HANDS!

Eggciting News about Easter Food Safety

2010-03-15T11:12:00.000-07:00

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has some tips for handling eggs on your Easter egg hunt this year. Check them out at.....
www.dhss.mo.gov/TopicsA-Z/SalmonellaEasterEggs.pdf

Did You Know We are on Twitter?

2010-03-12T19:52:00.001-08:00

All Platte County Health Department services provide content to our Twitter account. You can follow us at www.twitter.com/plattehealth. Enjoy!

ServSafe Class

2010-02-24T07:39:00.001-08:00

The next ServSafe Manager's Class at the Platte County Health Department will be April 15 in Parkville from 8:30 am - 5:30 pm. It's a great class for restaurant owners, managers or anyone who is looking to learn more about food safety. The cost of the class is $95 which includes the book, exam booklet and proctoring fee. You must register before the class, to register call 816.858.2412.

Platte County Food Classes

2010-02-23T09:00:00.001-08:00

The next Platte County Food Handler's Class is March 16 at 2pm at the Platte County Health Department, 1201 East Street, Parkville, MO 64152. To register call 816.858.2412 or visit our website http://www.plattecountyhealthdept.com/ to print out the registration form.

Welcome to the PLATTEr -- Your Source for Food Protection

2009-02-04T17:50:00.000-08:00

This blog is a service of the Platte County Health Department's Environmental Health Division. This group is responsible for monitoring compliance in Platte County food establishments, taverns, and school cafeterias. Also, food warehouses and food processors are monitored. The staff conducts inspections of these facilities as often as three times per year.

In addition to conducting routine surveillance, the staff responds to consumer complaints and emergencies where the food supply is compromised such as fires, truck accidents, and floods.

Environmental Health experts will provide tips and information about food health tips and food protection.