ORA/Office of Enforcement
Division of Compliance Management and Operations
E. coli 0157:H7 Model Press
Release (with example)
(WordPerfect 6.1 version)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE
COMPANY CONTACT AND PHONE NUMBER
FOOD CO. RECALLS PRODUCT BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK
Company Name of City, State is recalling Quantity and/or Type of Product
because it may be contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteria (E. Coli O157:H7).
E. coli O157:H7 causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools. Although most healthy
adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a form of kidney
failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young
children and the elderly. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.
Product was distributed Listing of states and areas where the
product was distributed and how it reached consumers (e.g., through retail stores, mail
order, direct delivery).
Specific information on how the product can be identified (e.g., type
of container [plastic/metal/glass], size or appearance of product, product brand name,
flavor, codes, expiration dates, etc.).
Status of the number of and types of related illnesses that have been
CONFIRMED to date (e.g., "No illnesses have been reported to date."
Brief explanation about what is known about the problem, such as how it
was revealed, and what is known about its source. An example of such a description --
"the recall was initiated after it was discovered that product was contaminated with
E. coli O157:H7. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary
breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes."
Information on what consumers should do with the product and where they
can get additional information (e.g., "consumers who have purchased Brand X are urged
to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may
contact the company at 1-800-XXX-XXXX.)
####
(SAMPLE PRESS RELEASE)
XYZ Inc.
123 Smith Lane
Anywhere, MS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE
Sam Smith /555-555-5555
XYZ RECALLS "SNACKIES" BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK
XYZ Inc. of Anywhere, MS, is recalling its 5 ounce packages of "Snackies" food
treats because they have the potential to be contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7.
E. coli O157:H7 causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools. Although most healthy
adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a form of kidney
failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young
children and the elderly; the condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.
The recalled "Snackies" were distributed nationwide in retail
stores and through mail orders.
The product comes in a 5 ounce, clear plastic package marked with lot #
666666 on the top and with an expiration date of 12/12/99 stamped on the side.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this
problem.
The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the
company detected the presence of E. coli O157:H7.
Production of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company
continue their investigation as to the cause of the problem.
Consumers who have purchased 5 ounce packages of "Snackies"
are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with
questions may contact the company at 1-800-XXX-XXXX.
####
Click Here for a WordPerfect 6.1
version
|