Disinfectant Contamination Results in Chicken, Turkey Parts Recall

More than 2,100 pounds of chicken and turkey pieces have been recalled after government inspectors discovered that the products may have been contaminated with an industrial disinfectant, which could cause allergic reactions and other safety hazards for consumers. 

The AA Poultry Processing chicken and turkey recall was announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) on May 14, after the Wisconsin poultry processor reported potential contamination of the products with a disinfectant that is not approved for use by FSIS standards. To date, no injuries or reactions have been reported.

The products being recalled were reportedly exposed to trichloro-s-triazinetrione, which is a sanitizer chemical or algaecide and shock product depending on the application. The chemical has been shown to remain prevalent on surfaces for long periods of times. Exposure can cause eye and skin irritation and burning, as well as nose, throat, and lung irritation from inhalation.

The recall includes an estimated 2,191 pounds of whole and cut chicken and 21 pounds of turkey pieces processed from May 4 to May 11. The products were processed by AA Poultry Processing LLC of Ridgeland, Wisconsin where they were to be distributed personally, not to large retail chains. Recalled products contain the establishment number “P-45525” inside the USDA inspection mark on the label.

The processing violation was discovered by FSIS in-plant personnel during routine verification activities, the USDA said. There have been no reports of adverse allergic reactions due to consumption of these products, but anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider. The agency is still investigating what caused the chemicals to be exposed to the products and may take further action.

The USDA has issued a Class II recall for these particular poultry products indicating there is a remote probability that the handling or consumption of the contaminated chicken and turkey pieces could cause adverse health consequences.