McCormick's Italian, Frank's RedHot Buffalo Ranch Seasoning Recalled Due To Possible Salmonella Contamination

Life & Trends Reporter

McCormick & Company has issued a voluntary recall of four of its seasoning products "due to possible contamination with Salmonella," according to an announcement posted Tuesday on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website.

The recalled items include three from McCormick and one from the Frank's RedHot brand, which is owned by McCormick.

No illnesses have been reported so far in connection with the latest issue, the company said.

"The potential risk was brought to McCormick's attention by FDA during routine testing. This recall affects cases that were shipped of the affected date codes," the company said.

The specific products recalled include two McCormick Perfect Pinch Italian Seasoning items as well as the McCormick Culinary Italian Seasoning product and the Frank's RedHot Buffalo Ranch Seasoning item.

Consumers were alerted and grocery chains were advised to immediately remove the recalled items from stores and distribution centers and "to destroy this product in a manner that would prevent any further consumption."

Consumers are not required to return the affected products to where it was purchased but are instead urged to dispose of them and their containers.

Those who want a replacement product or a full refund or have other questions can contact McCormick Consumer Affairs at 1-800-635-2867 on weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.

What is Salmonella?

The FDA explains salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal illness and fever known as salmonellosis.

It can be spread by food handlers who don't wash their hands and/or the surfaces and tools used between food preparation steps and when people eat raw or undercooked foods.

The bacteria can also be transmitted from animals to humans. Those who have direct contact with certain animals, including poultry and reptiles, can spread salmonella from the animals if they do not properly wash their hands before handling food. Pets who consume food contaminated with salmonella can also spread the bacteria, the FDA says.

Salmonellosis normally lasts four to seven days and most patients recover without treatment. Symptoms can include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps.

In more severe cases, some experience a high fever, aches, headaches, lethargy, a rash, blood in the urine or stool. In some cases the illness can be fatal, the FDA warns.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the illness causes around 420 deaths every year in the country.

Products Under McCormick Seasoning Recall

McCormick Perfect Pinch Italian Seasoning 1.31 oz bottle

UPC number: 052100049731
McCormick item number: 901582629
Affected date codes: Best By May 26 24 K, Best By May 27 24 K, Best By Jun 04 24 K, Best By Jun 05 24 K