For Immediate Release Thursday, November 17, 2005
State Health Officials Urge Coloradans To Discard Some Containers of Harry &
David Olive Tapenade
Contact: Lori Maldonado
Public Information Specialist
Office: (303) 692-2028
Cell: (303) 921-8598
DENVER—The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Thursday
urged individuals, who may have purchased Black and Kalamata Olive Tapenade,
at any Harry & David retail location since September 16 to to check their
containers for specific code information because of potential contamination
with Clostridium botulinum.
The product was distributed throughout the United States in 11 oz. glass
jars with the lot code number 23405-941H2. The lot code appears in black ink
on the shoulder of the glass jar. The following item number for the product
is located on an adhesive label on the bottom of the jar:
“Harry and David
888905
Tapenade Olive”
Clostridium botulinum is a bacteria that can cause botulism. Botulism is a
potentially fatal form of food poisoning that can cause symptoms, including
general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and difficulty speaking or
swallowing. Difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, abdominal distension and
constipation also can be common symptoms.
The nationwide recall issued by Harry & David Operations Corp. of Medford,
Oregon, on Wednesday, November 16, affects 200 jars of the firm’s Black and
Kalamata Olive Tapenade.
The firm indicated that the dates of distribution to Harry and David retail
locations ranged from September 16-September 26, 2005.
Susan Parachini, whole food program manager and recall coordinator for the
Department of Public Health and Environment’s Consumer Protection Division,
said, “It is extremely important that any consumer who purchased the Olive
Tapenade check the container for the lot code and item number.”
Parachini cautioned consumers that, if they have any of the recalled
product, not to use it, even if it does not look or smell spoiled.
“Consumers who have the Black and Kalamata Olive Tapenade should discard the
product or return it to the place of purchase for a refund,” Parachini said.
She said, to date, there have not been any reports of illnesses linked to
the product nationwide.
“At this time, no other Harry & David products or any other lot codes of the
same product are involved in the recall,” she said.
The national recall was issued after it was determined there had been a
temporary breakdown in the production and packaging processes at the firm’s
Orange, California, co-packer. Laboratory analysis of the finished product
indicated an unstable pH, an indication of inadequate processing.
Parachini advised any individuals, who have consumed the olive tapenade and
who are experiencing any of the above symptoms, to seek immediate medical
attention.
For more information, the public may call the Consumer Protection Division
at (303) 692-3620.
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