FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- March 5, 2008 – Whole Foods Market announced the recall of its 365 Everyday Value Brand Organic Whole Wheat Buttermilk Pancake and Waffle Mix, which may have potential salmonella contamination. No other Whole Foods Market, 365 or 365 Organic products are affected.
The product, sold in two pound bags with Best Before dates of Nov 1 2009 and Nov 2 2009 stamped on the top, displays the following UPC code: 99482-42453: 365 Everyday value Brand Organic Buttermilk Pancake and Waffle Mix, 100% Whole Wheat.
Salmonella is a food-borne illness that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
No illnesses have been reported in connection with this issue to date. There is very low risk of illness when preparation directions on the bag are followed and the product is not consumed raw or undercooked. Salmonella bacteria is killed at a temperature of 160° F.
If consumers have this product with the indicated UPC codes and Best Before dates, they may return it to the store for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company by calling 512-542-0656.
Whole Foods Market has removed the affected lot codes from all store shelves. Product was distributed to 19 states including Florida, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Utah, California, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and Oklahoma.