Public Information Office
(603) 271-9388
September 24, 2012
Concord, NH – Trader Joe’s is voluntarily recalling its Creamy Salted Valencia Peanut Butter because of potential contamination with the bacteria Salmonella Bredeney. The product was distributed to Trader Joe’s stores nationwide and though no cases have been positively linked to the product the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is advising New Hampshire residents not to eat any of this product.
The product comes in a 16-ounce plastic jar and all code dates are subject to this recall. People should discard any remaining peanut butter or return it to Trader Joe’s. This is especially important for children under the age of five, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems because they may develop more severe illness. The most common symptoms of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 6 to 72 hours. Additional symptoms may be chills, headache, nausea, and vomiting that can last up to seven days. DHHS is also encouraging anyone who may have eaten Trader Joe’s Creamy Salted Valencia Peanut Butter who becomes ill with diarrhea or vomiting to consult their healthcare provider.
“Foodborne illness is always a serious concern,” said Dr. José Montero, Director of Public Health at DHHS, “especially for the children and seniors and those with other conditions. Caution is always the prudent path so we urge people to check their cupboards for this product and dispose of it.”
Customers with questions can contact Trader Joe’s Customer Relations at (626) 599-3817 or visit their website at http://m.traderjoes.com/about/customer-updates-responses.asp?i=86. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is conducting an investigation into possible cases of illness www.cdc.gov/salmonella/bredeney-09-12/index.html and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has information on their website at www.fda.gov/Food/FoodSafety/CORENetwork/ucm320413.htm.