What To Know
- Smucker Company issued a massive recall of its Jif peanut butter products due to potential salmonella contamination.
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA) traced the contamination to a single Jif peanut butter manufacturing facility in Lexington, Kentucky.
- The Jif peanut butter recall is a reminder of the importance of food safety.
In May 2022, the J.M. Smucker Company issued a massive recall of its Jif peanut butter products due to potential salmonella contamination. The recall affected certain lots of Jif peanut butter sold across the United States, prompting widespread concern among consumers.
The Source of the Contamination
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) traced the contamination to a single Jif peanut butter manufacturing facility in Lexington, Kentucky. An inspection of the facility revealed unsanitary conditions and the presence of salmonella bacteria in environmental samples.
Health Risks Associated with Salmonella
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause foodborne illness. Symptoms of salmonella infection can range from mild to severe and include:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea
In severe cases, salmonella infection can lead to hospitalization and even death.
Recalled Products
The following Jif peanut butter products were included in the recall:
- Creamy Peanut Butter (16 oz., 18 oz., 28 oz., 48 oz., 64 oz.)
- Natural Creamy Peanut Butter (16 oz., 18 oz., 28 oz., 48 oz.)
- Natural Peanut Butter (16 oz., 18 oz., 28 oz., 48 oz.)
- Less Sodium Creamy Peanut Butter (16 oz.)
- Reduced Fat Creamy Peanut Butter (16 oz., 18 oz.)
- No Sugar Added Creamy Peanut Butter (16 oz.)
Affected Lots
The recalled lots of Jif peanut butter can be identified by the following lot codes:
- 1274425 – 2140425
- 2150425 – 3032525
What to Do if You Have Recalled Jif Peanut Butter
If you have any of the recalled Jif peanut butter products, you should:
- Discard them immediately
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Contact J.M. Smucker Company for a full refund or replacement
How to Prevent Salmonella Infection
To prevent salmonella infection, it is important to:
- Cook poultry, meat, and eggs thoroughly
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that have come into contact with raw animal products
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
If you suspect you have a salmonella infection, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms can include:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
Treatment for Salmonella Infection
Treatment for salmonella infection typically involves antibiotics and supportive care to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
The Bottom Line: Staying Safe from Salmonella
The Jif peanut butter recall is a reminder of the importance of food safety. By following proper food handling and hygiene practices, we can help prevent salmonella infection and protect our health.
Top Questions Asked
1. What is salmonella?
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause foodborne illness.
2. What are the symptoms of salmonella infection?
Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, headache, and fatigue.
3. How is salmonella infection treated?
Treatment typically involves antibiotics and supportive care.
4. How can I prevent salmonella infection?
Cook poultry, meat, and eggs thoroughly, wash your hands frequently, avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products, and clean and disinfect surfaces that have come into contact with raw animal products.
5. What should I do if I have recalled Jif peanut butter?
Discard it immediately, wash your hands thoroughly, and contact J.M. Smucker Company for a refund or replacement.
