In the last few weeks, there have been almost 500 reports of adverse reactions from consumers who ate this product. Some people have required hospitalization, and at least one person underwent gallbladder surgery after showing signs of liver damage. In fact, a number of people reported that tests showed their liver enzymes were very elevated, and in most cases people said their symptom onset was quite sudden. The common stories being told by people who got sick after eating these lentil crumbles from Daily Harvest have led to a number of theories on what might be causing these symptoms. For its part, Daily Harvest put out a statement yesterday that reads, "We have spent the past ten days working with the FDA, state agencies and multiple independent labs, as well as experts in … [Read more...]
Eskbiochem Saniderm Hand Sanitizer Recalled For Wood Alcohol
Eskbiochem Saniderm hand sanitizer is being recalled because it contains wood alcohol, which can be absorbed through the skin. This exposure "could result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death. Although all persons using these products on their hands are at risk, young children who accidentally ingest these products and adolescents and adults who drink these products as an alcohol (ethanol) substitute, are most at risk for methanol poisoning," according to the FDA recall notice. Saniderm has initiated a voluntary recall of all its products produced by Eskbiochem SA de CV with a "Made in Mexico" origin. There have been no reports of adverse events related to this product. The recalled product … [Read more...]
Toledo, OH Residents Urged to Not Drink or Touch the Water
The City of Toledo, Ohio has posted an urgent notice for residents of Toledo and Lucas counties who receive water from the city: do not drink or touch the water. The water is contaminated with algal toxins that boiling cannot remove. In fact, boiling will increase the concentration of the toxins. This notice applies to ALL customers of Toledo water. Water should not be consumed until the all clear is issued. Do not give this water to pets. Do not use the water for washing, showering, bathing, brushing teeth, making ice, preparing infant formula, or for cleaning. And do not use it to wash food. Filtration systems will not remove the toxins. In addition, restaurants and food facilities are being asked to temporarily suspend their operations unless they can guarantee no consumption of tap … [Read more...]
FDA Issues Final Guidance for Import Refusal of Ackee
The FDA has issued final guidance on import enforcement for ackee, a fruit that contains the toxin hypoglycin A. When the fruit is fully ripe, the toxin drops to negligible levels, but if the fruit isn't ripe or if it isn't properly processed to remove the seeds and rind, concentrations of hypoglycin A can rise about 100 parts per million and become a health risk. The FDA now has the authority to seize domestic product and to refuse imports. Ackee is a tropical fruit about four inches long. When immature, it is green. A mature fruit is yellow, with an overlay of bright red with three bulging seams. The fleshy, pale yellow arils inside are the edible part. Ackee is found in West Africa, South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. It is also found in Florida. The fruit is … [Read more...]
At Easter, Keep Cats Away from Lilies, Dogs Away from Chocolate
We cover food safety for animals at Food Poisoning Bulletin. The FDA is concerned bout them too, so are issuing a warning for cat and dog lovers about things that are common for Easter celebrations. Make sure that all member of your family stay safe during the holidays and all other times. For humans, read our post about food safety and Easter eggs. Lilies, a common household plant, are very toxic to cats. (Tiger lilies, day lilies, and lily of the valley are toxic to dogs.) Make sure, if you choose to have any for your house, that your cat does not eat or touch any part of the plants. The entire plant, including leaf, pollen, and flower, is toxic. Do not buy these plants if you have cats. Symptoms of lily toxicity in cats include lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite. These … [Read more...]
