A routine inspection conducted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has revealed the presence of salmonella at Kunze Farms in Daytona, Oregon. As a result Kunze Farms has issued a recall for at least 33,000 pounds of hazelnut kernels. The recalled hazelnuts were packed in 25 pound cartons with code numbers 289091A or 299091A and labeled as ‘Select Shelled Hazelnuts’ under the Kunze Farms brand name. The product was distributed to several processors and wholesaler’s in several states, however to date no illnesses have been reported.

This problem could not have come at a worse time as the holiday season is one of the most popular times of year to prepare baked goods, many of which contain hazelnuts. Consumers who have purchased this recalled product should not use the product and promptly return the hazelnuts to the place of purchase. People who return recalled products are promised a full refund and anyone with questions is urged to contact Kurt Kunze directly for more information between 9am and 5pm at 503-864-2102.

It is important to not ignore these important recalls. Over the past few years there have been other recalls related to salmonella and consumers have a tendency to become desensitized to this type of news event. This could result in a more lax attitude toward product recalls. Seniors, young children and people with a compromised immune system are especially vulnerable to salmonella. They can become very sick and in some cases an infection can be fatal. For this reason it is imperative to pay close attention to recalls, even those that are primarily preventative to avoid getting sick. Symptoms of salmonella poisoning in healthy individuals includes: fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and pain in the abdomen. Symptoms usually present themselves 12 to 72 hours after infection and can last anywhere from 4 to 7 days. Most cases of salmonella poisoning do not require medical attention or hospitalization, however more serious cases require treatment with includes intravenous fluids and antibiotics. To be on the safe side, anyone who believes they may have salmonella poisoning should visit their physician to confirm the diagnosis. The reason this is important even in mild cases is to have a record of the infection which can be reported to the public health department to prevent others from getting sick.

Nuts have become a regular source of salmonella poisoning in recent years. Peanuts and pistachio nuts have both been in the news as part of previous recalls. Pay close attention to recalls this holiday season to avoid using potentially dangerous hazelnuts in your holiday treats.