Achdut is recalling multiple brands of Tahini because it is linked to a Salmonella Concord outbreak that has sickened at least five people. This product is imported from Israel.
The recalled products are Tahini, Whole Tahini, Organic Tahini, and Seasoned Tahini sold under the brand names Achdut, Baron’s, S&F, Pepperwood, Soom and Achva. The product is packaged in these container sizes: 15 ounce, 16 ounce, 17.6 ounce, 635 ounce, and has lot numbers 18-097 to 18-141. The expiration dates on these recalled products range from April 7 to May 21, 2020. The product was distributed internationally in retail stores and through mail order.
The recall notice states that the probable root cause for this recall is cross-contamination. Achdut is collaborating with health officials in the United States in relation to the outbreak.
If you bought any of these products, with any of these brand names, and in any of these sizes, do not eat it. Discard it in a sealed or double bagged container, or return it to the store where you bought it for a full refund.
A sample of Baron tahini yielded the outbreak strain of Salmonella Concord, according to the FDA. That same strain has been isolated in patient samples.
If you have eaten this tahini, and have been ill, see your doctor. A Salmonella infection can cause long-lasting health problems, including reactive arthritis, endocarditis, inflammatory bowel disease, and high blood pressure.
The symptoms of a Salmonella infection include nausea, a fever, painful stomach and abdominal cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea that may be bloody or watery. Most people get sick within a few days of ingesting this pathogen. And most people get better, after about a week, without medical treatment.
I’m curious if there is a secondary recall that will result? Tehina is an ingredient in most hummus recipes? Are there any hummus manufactures that use tehina made by Achdut as part of their product.
It could happen. Stay tuned.