The St. Albans, New York-based company sold the recalled soups via the Internet, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notice published on September 7, 2017.
There is no information at this time regarding the number of jars of the recalled soups that may have been sold, so if anyone has purchased these soups online or knows someone else who may have purchased them, do not consume them.
On the Island Soups Company website, a section entitled Retail Partners shows that 31 retailers in New York and New Jersey also carry the company’s soups, so if any consumers have purchased the recalled products via the Internet or at one of the retail locations, do not consume them. Segregate and destroy the recalled products.
“FDA inspection of the establishment reveals that the firm does not have valid process schedules or process documentation to ensure that these soup products have been sufficiently processed to prevent the growth of Clostridium botulinum,” according to the recall notice.
Island Soups Company states on its website that its soups are under review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and cannot be shelved in Supermarkets until the review is complete. The website also states, “We do not use preservatives in our soups. Our soups are kept fresh through our heating and cooling processes.”
The recalled soups are all sold in 16-ounce glass jars with white metal lids. Food Safety News reports the labels on the soups have best-by dates beginning in July 2015 and running through June 2018. The specific varieties of Island Soups under recall are:
1. Gungo Peas Soup;
2. Gungo Peas Soup no meat;
3. Red Peas Soup;
4. Red Peas Soup no meat;
5. Mannish Water, and
6. Fish Soup.
Botulism is a potentially deadly foodborne illness and can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms.
While there have been no reports of illness or injury related to the recalled products, people experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
Consumers with questions can call 917-991-6647, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., EST.
