Massive Food Recall Includes Pringles Potato Chips

Canadian and US officials have issued a widespread food recall after an inspection at a Basic Food Flavors Inc. plant in Las Vegas, revealed trace amounts of salmonella. The salmonella was discovered in the food additive hydrolyzed vegetable protein.

Salmonella can be potentially fatal to young children, the elderly and those who have weakened immune systems. The illness mimics an intestinal virus but can quickly turn into a serious illness.

HVP is used to flavor more than a thousand different foods. Most commonly found in potato chips, soups, hot dogs, and other ready-to-eat food products. The FDA in the US has named 101 products while officials in Canada have named 26 products thus far.

The recalled foods include the popular Pringles potato chip brand. Thus far, only two of their many flavors have been recalled, Taco Night and Cheeseburger. Pringles executives claim these two flavors make up less than one percent of their total potato chip sales.

The products included in the recall, date all the way back to September, 2009. Consumers who have any of these products in their cupboards should immediately throw them away. Some companies may offer coupons or refunds.

This recall is just beginning and will most likely continue to grow.