California company recalls black fungus slices after testing finds Salmonella

Natureen International Inc. of Walnut, CA, is recalling Wei-Chuan Dried Black Fungus Slices in 2.5-ounce bags because they are contaminated with Salmonella

The recalled product was distributed in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin through direct delivery to retail stores and supermarkets from Wei-Chuan Chicago Branch.

The product comes in 2.5-ounce clear plastic packages marked with lot # XJ17 at the bottom of the front package side and also with an expiration date of EXP:20260417 below the lot number.

As of the posting of the recall notice today, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this problem.

The California Department of Public Health notified the Food and Drug Administration that the product was contaminated with pathogen of Salmonella.

Production of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company continue their investigation of the source of the problem.

Consumers who have purchased 2.5-ounce packages of “Wei-Chuan Dried Black Fungus Slice” are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company Natureen International Inc. at 626-961-9813 or the Chicago office at 708-352-8886 Ext. 5201.

About Salmonella infections
Food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria does not usually look, smell, or taste spoiled. Anyone can become sick with a Salmonella infection. Infants, children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness because their immune systems are fragile, according to the CDC.

Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled product and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention. Sick people should tell their doctors about the possible exposure to Salmonella bacteria because special tests are necessary to diagnose salmonellosis. Salmonella infection symptoms can mimic other illnesses, frequently leading to misdiagnosis.

Symptoms of Salmonella infection can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Otherwise, healthy adults are usually sick for four to seven days. In some cases, however, diarrhea may be so severe that patients require hospitalization.

Older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, are more likely to develop a severe illness and serious, sometimes life-threatening conditions.

Some people get infected without getting sick or showing any symptoms. However, they may still spread the infections to others.

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