BFAD orders recall of 2 batches of tainted peanut spread

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) found two batches of peanut spreads to be contaminated with Salmonella and warned the public not to be eat them. In Advisory 2009-002 dated March 12, the BFAD ordered the immediate recall of the following products: • Yummy Sweet and Creamy Peanut Spread 490 grams (Batch 11240810), with expiry date of May 24, 2009 • Yummy Sweet and Creamy Peanut Spread 224 grams (Batch 3040905), with expiry date Sept. 4, 2009 The spread was made by the Samuya Food Manufacturing Inc. The advisory, signed by BFAD Director Leticia Gutierrez, was posted on Saturday at the BFAD Web site (www.bfad.gov.ph). Part of it reads: "To date, the Bureau of Food and Drugs has not received any adverse events assocated with the consumption of the peanut spread products identified above. Further, the Bureau has directed the manufacturer to undertake immediate recall of the affected products identified above, is undertaking close monitoring on the establishment's action, comprhensive audit and inspection on the manufacturing practices of the establishment and pursuing appropriate actions to protect public health and welfare." BFAD said those who think they might have become ill from eating the spread should consult a doctor. "Do not eat the peanut spread products covered by the batch number identified [and] throw them away in a manner that prevents others from eating such products," it added. It also advised distributors and retailers to stop selling the peanut spread batches and food service establishments to stop using them. It also ordered the manufacturer to inform consumers where to return any of the unconsumed products and get a refund. - GMANews.TV