Pistachio Recall Issued Due to Salmonella Poisoning Risk

Multiple lots of pistachios have been recalled because they may be contaminated with Salmonella, posing a potential risk of food poisoning infections.  

An ARO and Treasured Harvest Pistachio recall was announced on July 10, after the manufacturer became aware the nuts may be contaminated with salmonella and took the action as a precautionary measure.

Although no illnesses have been reported to date and contamination has not been detected in the finished products, salmonella infections may pose a serious health risk for young children, who the product is primarily marketed for, as well as the elderly and those with a weaker immune system.

The recall consists of Treasured Harvest Roasted & Salted Pistachios packaged in 6 oz. clear plastic cups with lot numbers 123050, 123140, 123320, 123450, 123360, 130150, 130240, 130350; 12 oz. clear bags with lot number 130290; and 28 oz. clear plastic trays with lot numbers 123100, 122960, and 123040.

The recalled lots of pistachios were manufactured by Western Mixers Produce & Nut Company of Los Angeles, California and distributed throughout California, Nevada, Ohio and Utah to various retail stores, distributors, and mail by orders from October 17, 2012 through April 29, 2013.

Symptoms of salmonella poisoning usually consist of fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. While these symptoms typically resolve in a few days for healthy individuals, if the bacteria enters the blood stream, it can cause more severe side effects such as infected aneurysms, endocarditis, and arthritis that may lead to severe adverse health consequences or even death.

The FDA and the manufacturers recommend that consumers with recalled lots of pistachios dispose of them or return them to their place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may also contact Western Mixers Produce & Nuts Inc. at 1-877-230-8449.

In 2009, a massive pistachio nut recall was issued by Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc., which affected nearly 80 products sold under 21 brand names, including Frito-Lay, Fisher, Planters and Kraft. That company allegedly kept selling pistachios for six months after it discovered the potential for contamination.