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Salmonella Illnesses May be Linked to Recalled Cereal

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that at least 23 people in 14 states have been diagnosed with salmonellosis that was caused by the same strain of Salmonella found in the recently recalled unsweetened Puffed Rice and unsweetened Puffed Wheat Cereals produced by Malt-O-Meal. Salmonellosis is an infection caused by Salmonella bacteria.

The recalled products were distributed nationally under the Malt-O-Meal brand name, as well as under private label brands including Acme, America's Choice, Food Club, Giant, Hannaford, Jewel, Laura Lynn, Pathmark, Shaw's, ShopRite, Tops and Weis Quality.

The cereals have "Best If Used By" dates from April 8, 2008 (coded as "APR0808") through March 18, 2009 (coded as "MAR1809"). Grocery stores and other retailers should promptly remove the recalled cereals from their shelves.

About Salmonella

• Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
• Symptoms of foodborne Salmonella infection include nausea, vomiting, fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

Steps for Consumers

• Consumers should throw out any product in their homes from these recalled lots.
• Individuals who believe they may have experienced an illness consistent with the symptoms described above after consuming a Puffed Wheat or Puffed Rice Cereal made by Malt-O-Meal should contact their health care professional immediately and report the illness to their state or local health authorities.

For More Information

Full List of Recalled Cereals
http://www.malt-o-meal.com/recallinfo/

Firm Press Release
http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/maltomeal04_08.html

FDA Press Release
http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2008/NEW01819.html

Date Posted: April 14, 2008

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