The recall, announced on November 7, involves select lots of Costco’s Caesar Salad and Chicken Sandwich with Caesar Salad. These products, sold at stores in the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast, were found to contain plastic foreign material in the salad dressing, prompting an immediate response from both Costco and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Though no injuries have been reported, the FDA has classified the risk as Class II, meaning there could be temporary health effects, but serious harm is unlikely.
A Widespread Recall Affects Dozens of States
The affected products, sold at Costco locations in 34 states, include Caesar Salad (Lot No. 19927) and Chicken Sandwich with Caesar Salad (Lot No. 11444). Both products, distributed by Ventura Foods and sold between October 17 and November 9, contain a 3-ounce packet of Caesar dressing that was found to be contaminated with plastic fragments.
The recall spans a wide geographical area, covering states like Alabama, Florida, Illinois, New York, and Pennsylvania, along with Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. According to the recall notice from Costco, the plastic contamination was only discovered in the salad dressing portion, and no other items were affected.
The recall is primarily focused on products purchased between mid-October and early November. Costco, working with Ventura Foods, has urged customers to return the products to their local Costco stores for a full refund. Consumers in affected states are advised not to consume these items, even if they have already purchased them.
The recall came after the company identified the issue and began an investigation into the source of the contamination. Fortunately, no injuries or adverse health effects have been reported, although consumers are advised to be cautious.
FDA Class II Warning: Low Risk, But Immediate Action Recommended
The FDA has issued a Class II recall warning, which suggests that while there is a low risk of serious health consequences, the contaminated products could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects. A Class II warning is issued when the health consequences of consuming the affected product are less severe, and the likelihood of long-term harm is low.
This specific warning was issued to ensure that consumers are aware of the potential risks. Although plastic in food products can cause choking or digestive issues, the risk of more serious harm from consuming the affected products is considered minimal, according to the FDA. The company has assured the public that the plastic fragments found are not likely to lead to significant injury.
Both Costco and Ventura Foods have acted quickly to resolve the issue and remove the products from shelves. They are working closely with the FDA and other relevant authorities to investigate the cause of the contamination. Given the widespread distribution of the affected products, the recall has garnered attention from both media outlets and concerned customers across the nation.
For customers seeking more information, Costco has directed them to check the FDA Enforcement Report platform or contact their customer service department. The company’s swift response to the contamination risk and its commitment to customer safety will likely help mitigate potential harm, though the full impact of the recall will unfold as investigations continue.
