Posted: May 22nd, 2010 - 7:36am
Source: FSAI

http://www.barfblog.com/blog/142239/10/05/21/salmonella-organic-sesame-seeds-sold-ireland-grown-bolivia
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) today advised that a product recall is being undertaken on certain packets of sesame seed mixes supplied into the Irish retail market by Independent Irish Health Foods Ltd. These seed mixes are being recalled due to the presence of Salmonella which presents a risk to consumers’ health. The issue was identified as part of a survey on ready-to-eat nuts and dried seeds. Consumers are being warned not to consume the affected products which are as follows:
Independent Irish Health Foods Ltd
Product Name: Organic Sesame Seeds, 250g, 500g packs
Organic Four Seed Mix, 250g, 500g packs
Best-before date: 11/03/2011 to 07/05/2011 inclusive
Country of Origin: Bolivia
These seeds have been distributed widely within the Republic of Ireland. Some packets clearly show the name Independent Irish Health Foods Ltd, other packs have been supplied to independent retailers (e.g. health stores) and this packaging states: "packed by Independent Irish Health Foods" on the front of the pack.
The FSAI has contacted retail stores to which Independent Irish Health Foods Ltd has supplied these products, to ensure that all affected batches are being withdrawn from sale. The FSAI is continuing to monitor the withdrawal.
According to Prof Alan Reilly, Chief Executive, FSAI, it is particularly concerning that this is the second time a Salmonella issue has been identified in relation to sesame seeds in less than a year. Food businesses marketing these products need to ensure that both hygiene and processing are of a standard to eliminate Salmonella from these ready-to-eat products. Contaminated seeds pose a risk to health as they would be consumed raw and are generally not cooked prior to people consuming them.
“We are advising consumers not to eat the affected product. Eating contaminated seeds could cause food poisoning. Consumers who have affected product are advised to dispose of it or return it to the store where it was purchased. Consumers who may have already consumed this product and are feeling unwell, should seek medical advice,” he said.