A recent food safety alert has prompted a large-scale recall of Johnsonville's cheddar bratwurst, following reports of hard plastic contamination. The company, based in Momence, Illinois, is pulling approximately 22,672 pounds of the affected product from shelves.
According to the New York Post, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has confirmed the recall of the meat products, initially shipped to stores in 10 different states.
The cheddar bratwurst involved in the recall was manufactured on February 5, 2025. It is important for consumers to note that the affected products can be identified by specific packaging and labeling details outlined by Johnsonville and FSIS.
Each package involved in the recall is marked with the package code “B9FOD” and sealed in 19-ounce tray packs. These trays contain five individual pieces of Johnsonville Bacon Cheddar Bratwurst. To ensure correct identification, consumers should also look for the establishment number “Est. 1647” displayed on each label.
The distribution of these products spanned across 10 states, including Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin, enhancing the scope and seriousness of the recall.
Johnsonville set this recall into motion after receiving two consumer complaints about hard plastic fragments found within the bratwurst. These incidents raised immediate concerns around consumer safety and food quality assurance protocols.
Upon discovery of the plastic contamination, FSIS was quick to act, collaborating with Johnsonville to mitigate any potential health risks. The recall advises consumers who have purchased these bratwursts to either throw them away or return them to the place of purchase.
Fortunately, there have been no confirmed reports of injuries or health issues caused by the recalled products. This preemptive recall aims to prevent any such occurrences by removing the affected products from circulation.
FSIS stresses the importance of disposing of or returning the product correctly and not consuming it under any circumstances. Johnsonville is offering refunds or replacements for returned items as part of its commitment to customer safety and satisfaction.
The proactive approach by Johnsonville and FSIS highlights the strict safety standards maintained by food producers and regulators. Despite the absence of injury reports, the recall serves as a precautionary measure to protect public health and maintain consumer trust in food safety.
Both FSIS and Johnsonville continue to monitor the situation closely and have issued nationwide alerts to ensure all potentially affected products are swiftly removed from the market. The collaboration emphasizes the importance of quick response and the effectiveness of existing safety protocols in the food industry.
The FSIS also uses this opportunity to remind other manufacturers to keep a rigorous check on their production lines and quality controls to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Johnsonville has expressed its commitment to enhancing its quality assurance processes to prevent future occurrences of such issues. This incident has led to an internal review of manufacturing and packaging processes at their Illinois facility.
The company's swift response to the incident and transparent communication with the FSIS and the public reflect their dedication to customer safety and health. Johnsonville encourages customers to reach out with any concerns regarding the recall or the products involved.
Consumers can access further information and updates on the recall through Johnsonville's customer service and the official FSIS website, which provide guidelines and support for those affected.
