Perdue Farms Issues Massive Product Recall for Chicken Nuggets Due to Metal Contamination

In a significant development that has sent shockwaves through the food industry, Perdue Foods LLC has announced a recall of over 167,000 pounds of frozen chicken products, including various types of chicken nuggets and tenders. This recall was initiated due to potential contamination by foreign objects, specifically metal wire. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) made the announcement, urging consumers to check their freezers for the affected products, which bear the establishment number ‘p-33944’ and have ‘best if used by’ dates of March 23, 2025. The products in question were all produced on March 23, 2024, and distributed nationwide as well as through online sales channels.

The recall was triggered by consumer complaints about finding metal wire embedded in the chicken nuggets and tenders. Despite the alarming nature of these reports, there have been no confirmed incidents of injury or illness related to the consumption of these products. Nevertheless, the FSIS is concerned that some consumers may still have these contaminated items in their freezers. The agency has advised that these products should not be consumed under any circumstances and should either be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Perdue Foods has identified the contaminant as a thin strand of metal wire that was accidentally introduced during the manufacturing process. Jeff Shaw, Perdue’s Senior Vice President of Food Safety and Quality, emphasized that the recall is a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of their customers. The company is working closely with the USDA to remove all affected products from the market and to investigate how the contamination occurred. Perdue is also offering a toll-free number for consumers with questions about the recall: 866-866-3703.

This recall extends to several brands under the Perdue umbrella, including Perdue Simply Smart Organics, ButcherBox Organic, and Perdue Chicken Breast Tenders. The widespread distribution of these products means that the recall has a broad impact, affecting consumers across the United States. The FSIS has posted photos of the impacted product labels on its website to help consumers identify the recalled items. Additionally, the USDA has provided a legal statement and market data disclaimer at the beginning of the recall notice, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.

The issue of foreign object contamination is not unique to Perdue Foods. In November 2023, Tyson Foods had to recall approximately 30,000 pounds of dinosaur-shaped frozen chicken nuggets due to similar reports of metal pieces found by consumers. This pattern of contamination incidents highlights an industry-wide challenge that requires stringent quality control measures and vigilant oversight. Other types of foreign objects that have been found in food products include rocks, insects, and plastic, posing significant risks to consumer health and safety.

Foreign object contamination in food products can lead to severe consequences, including choking hazards and potential injuries if the objects are ingested. The presence of metal in food is particularly concerning because it can cause internal damage if swallowed. Consumers who may have accidentally consumed metal-contaminated chicken nuggets or tenders are advised to seek medical attention immediately. While no adverse reactions have been reported so far, the potential for harm cannot be underestimated.

The recall also serves as a stark reminder for companies to implement and maintain rigorous quality control processes. Ensuring the safety of food products is paramount, and any lapse in quality control can have far-reaching consequences. Perdue Foods has not provided specific details about how the metal wire contamination occurred, but the ongoing investigation aims to uncover the root cause and prevent future incidents. The company’s commitment to food safety and quality will be closely scrutinized in the wake of this recall.

Consumers are encouraged to read product labels carefully and stay informed about recalls and food safety issues. The FSIS regularly updates its website with information about food recalls, providing valuable resources for consumers to protect themselves and their families. In addition to checking their freezers for the recalled products, consumers should also be aware of other recent recalls, such as those involving cinnamon, chocolate bars, and guacamole due to listeria contamination and undeclared allergens.

The recall of Perdue’s chicken products underscores the importance of consumer vigilance and the need for robust regulatory oversight. The FSIS plays a crucial role in monitoring food safety and ensuring that contaminated products are swiftly removed from the market. The agency’s efforts, combined with the cooperation of food manufacturers like Perdue, are essential in safeguarding public health. Consumers can also contact the USDA for food safety inquiries at 888-674-6854.

As the investigation into the metal contamination continues, Perdue Foods is taking steps to reassure its customers and restore confidence in its products. The company has emphasized that the recall is a precautionary measure and that they are committed to the highest standards of food safety and quality. By working closely with the USDA and addressing the root cause of the contamination, Perdue aims to prevent similar incidents in the future and maintain its reputation as a trusted food manufacturer.

In conclusion, the recall of over 167,000 pounds of frozen chicken products by Perdue Foods due to metal contamination is a significant event that highlights the challenges of ensuring food safety in the manufacturing process. While no injuries or illnesses have been reported, the potential risks associated with foreign object contamination cannot be ignored. Consumers are urged to check their freezers, avoid consuming the recalled products, and seek medical attention if they have any concerns. The ongoing investigation and Perdue’s commitment to addressing the issue demonstrate the importance of vigilance and quality control in the food industry.

This recall serves as a reminder for both consumers and manufacturers to prioritize food safety and take proactive measures to prevent contamination. By staying informed and adhering to safety guidelines, consumers can protect themselves and their families from potential hazards. Meanwhile, food manufacturers must continue to implement stringent quality control processes and work closely with regulatory agencies to ensure the safety and integrity of their products. The collaboration between the FSIS, Perdue Foods, and consumers is crucial in maintaining public trust and upholding the highest standards of food safety.