WASHINGTON, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- Some 1,900 pounds of ground beef and 16,000 packages of candy are being recalled by the Agriculture Department and Food and Drug Administration, respectively.
The FDA recalled 16,000 packages of mini-cup gel candies because they represent a potential choking hazard. The candy was distributed nationwide under the Mother's Pride and NATA labels.
The candy is described as a mini-fruit bite and is packaged in small sealed plastic cups of gelatin that may also contain a chunk of fruit.
The candy contains the ingredient "konjac" -- also known as conjac, konnyaku, yam flour or glucomannan. The Consumer Product Safety Commission and the FDA say this type of candy presents a serious choking risk, particularly to infants, children and the elderly. Local authorities have reported three children's deaths from choking in the United States. There have also been reports of deaths in other countries.
Each jelly cup is about the size of a single-serve coffee creamer. The jelly cups are in a plastic bag or plastic jar. The flavors sold are mango, assorted fruit and lychee. Some of the candy bears warning labels, suggesting that it not be eaten by children under age 3.
The candy was distributed by Budget Promotions of Houston.
The FDA has issued two previous general warnings against consuming mini-cup gel candies that contain "konjac." Although the agency issued an import alert to address importation of these candies in October 2001, candies imported prior to the import alert are still on the U.S. market.
Consumers are advised to return the product to place of purchase for a full refund or call 281-495-9887 for more information.
Niman Ranch Inc. of Oakland, Calif., has recalled 1,900 pounds of fresh ground beef because of possible E.coli contamination. The product was distributed to restaurants in California, Florida, Missouri, New York and Washington.
The recalled ground beef was packaged in 5- and 10-pound bags and 15-pound boxes, with packaging codes of DEC040530A or DEC041000A and establishment No. 2845 inside the USDA seal. The product was produced Dec. 4 and the problem was discovered through routine microbiological testing by the Food Safety and Inspection Service.
FSIS said it has received no reports of illnesses associated with the product.
For more information, call 510-808-0330.
