The New Hampshire Department of Public Health (NHDPH) discovered the problem after tests of two non-intact samples returned positive results for Lm. NHDPH notified the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, which tested intact samples of the product. Two samples tested positive for Lm. FSIS was alerted to the findings. Boston Salads and Provisions Company investigated the problem and identified a likely source of the contamination, according to FSIS. There have been no reports of illnesses due to consumption of the chicken salads.
The products were produced between Aug. 23 and Oct. 14, and shipped to wholesalers for further distribution to retail locations in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, FSIS said. Case labels or packaging may bear the sell by dates ranging from “9/13/2013” through “11/4/2013” as well as the establishment number “P-17999” inside the USDA mark of inspection. FSIS said affected products may be expired, however the agency expressed concern that some product may be frozen in consumer or retail freezers.
The products were sold under six brands: Boston Salads, Dietz & Watson, Market Source, Northern Haserot, Price Chopper and Rachael's Gourmet.
