Dinty Moore Beef Stew Pulled From Shelves

## Dinty Moore Beef Stew Recall: What You Need to Know and How to Stay Safe

For many, the name Dinty Moore evokes a sense of nostalgia, conjuring up images of a quick, comforting meal on a chilly day. However, recent news of a voluntary recall of Dinty Moore Beef Stew has left some consumers concerned. In this post, we'll break down the details of the recall, explain what caused it, tell you how to identify affected products, and most importantly, provide guidance on how to ensure your safety and the safety of your family.

The Scoop: Dinty Moore Beef Stew Pulled From Shelves

Hormel Foods Sales, LLC, recently announced a voluntary recall of specific production lots of Dinty Moore Beef Stew, primarily the 15-ounce cans. This recall was initiated due to the potential presence of undeclared soy and wheat allergens in the product. While this might not be a concern for everyone, individuals with allergies or sensitivities to soy or wheat could experience serious, even life-threatening, reactions if they consume the affected stew.

Why the Recall? Understanding the Allergen Issue

The root cause of the recall lies in a potential labeling error during the production process. It appears that some cans of Dinty Moore Beef Stew may have been mislabeled or contaminated with ingredients containing soy and wheat that were not accurately declared on the product label. This is a serious issue, as accurate labeling is crucial for individuals managing allergies to make informed purchasing decisions.

The presence of undeclared allergens poses a significant risk to those who are sensitive to them. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms like hives and itching to severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, and anaphylactic shock.

Identifying the Recalled Products: Key Information You Need

This is the most critical part of the information you need to ensure your safety. Here's how to determine if you have purchased any of the recalled Dinty Moore Beef Stew cans:

Product: Dinty Moore Beef Stew (15-ounce cans)

Establishment Number: "EST. 199" inside the USDA mark of inspection. This number indicates where the product was processed.

Date Codes: The affected cans will have date codes printed on the bottom of the can. Look for the following date codes:

22332

22342

22412

22422

Where to Find the Information:

USDA Mark of Inspection & Establishment Number: Look for the circular USDA mark of inspection on the can. The establishment number (EST. 199) will be located within this mark.

Date Code: The date code is typically printed on the bottom of the can. It's a string of numbers that indicate the date of production.

What to Do If You Have Recalled Products

If you have purchased any Dinty Moore Beef Stew cans matching the description above (establishment number and date codes), the following steps are crucial:

1. Do NOT Consume: Immediately stop consuming the product. Even a small amount can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.

2. Check the Pantry and Review Recent Purchases: Thoroughly check your pantry and refrigerator for any additional cans of Dinty Moore Beef Stew. Also, review recent grocery receipts to see if you purchased the affected product.

3. Dispose of the Product OR Return for a Refund: The USDA recommends that you either dispose of the recalled cans or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Contact the store where you bought the stew to understand their specific return policy.

4. Contact Hormel Foods: You can contact Hormel Foods Customer Relations at 1-800-523-4635 to report the recalled product and learn more about the recall.

Understanding the Bigger Picture: Recalls and Food Safety

Food recalls are a crucial part of the food safety system designed to protect consumers from potentially harmful products. While recalls can be concerning, they demonstrate that manufacturers and regulatory agencies like the USDA are actively monitoring food production to identify and address potential hazards.

Here are some important takeaways regarding food recalls:

Reporting Mechanisms: Food manufacturers often conduct regular testing and inspections of their products. They also rely on consumers and retailers to report any issues.

Voluntary vs. Mandatory Recalls: In many cases, like the Dinty Moore Beef Stew recall, the recall is voluntary, meaning the company initiates the recall themselves. However, regulatory agencies like the USDA have the authority to mandate a recall if a company refuses to act on a known safety issue.

Transparency and Communication: Effective communication is key to a successful recall. Companies and regulatory agencies work to disseminate information quickly and widely through press releases, website postings, and social media.

Protecting Yourself and Your Family: Proactive Steps You Can Take

Beyond the current recall, there are several things you can do to protect yourself and your family from foodborne illnesses and allergic reactions:

Read Labels Carefully: Always read food labels thoroughly, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities. Pay attention to ingredient lists and allergen warnings.

Stay Informed About Recalls: Sign up for email alerts from the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to receive notifications about food recalls. You can also follow the FSIS and the FDA on social media.

Practice Safe Food Handling: Follow proper food handling practices, such as washing your hands before preparing food, cooking food to the appropriate internal temperature, and storing food properly.

Report Issues: If you suspect that a food product is unsafe or has been mislabeled, report it to the FDA or USDA.

Conclusion: Staying Informed and Eating Safely

The Dinty Moore Beef Stew recall serves as a reminder of the importance of staying informed about food safety and taking precautions to protect yourself and your family. By understanding the details of the recall, identifying affected products, and following proper food handling practices, you can minimize your risk of exposure to allergens and foodborne illnesses. Remember to check your pantry, stay vigilant, and prioritize your health.