Perdue recalls 15,000 lbs of chicken nuggets after plastic discovered in meat

GAINESVILLE, Ga., Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Georgia food producer Perdue is recalling over 15,000 pounds of frozen chicken nuggets after plastic was discovered mixed into the meat.

Overall, 30,468 8-ounce boxes of Applegate Naturals Chicken Nuggets were pulled from store shelves for being significantly less natural than promised.

Consumers who may need to return the chicken-and-plastic nuggets are advisedby the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service to look out for boxes with an expiration date of "02/05/15" and the establishment number "P2617."

"The problem was discovered after the firm received consumer complaints that small pieces of plastic were found in the products. FSIS and the company have received no reports of injury or illness from consumption of the product. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness from consumption of these products should contact a healthcare provider."

The contaminated chicken was sold at Giant, Safeway and Whole Foods stores across the U.S. as well as other local and regional grocers.

In April, Perdue competitor Tyson Foods had to recall over 75,000 pounds of chicken nuggets, also because plastic was mixed and cooked into the chicken meat.

RECALL: Purdue recalling 15,000 pounds of frozen chicken nuggets that may contain plastic http://t.co/jevRTGyBYg pic.twitter.com/0o65pCQ1DV

— NBCWashington (@nbcwashington) August 13, 2014