What To Know
- Smucker Company, the manufacturer of Jif peanut butter, issued a voluntary recall of all Jif products with a lot code between 1274425 through 2140425.
- The recall and subsequent investigation into the Salmonella outbreak led to a temporary shutdown of production at the Jif peanut butter plant in Lexington, Kentucky.
- The Jif peanut butter shortage is a reminder of the importance of food safety and the potential consequences of foodborne illness outbreaks.
In recent months, grocery stores across the country have been facing a puzzling shortage of Jif peanut butter. This beloved spread has become a staple in American households, and its sudden disappearance has left many consumers wondering: why is Jif peanut butter out of stock?
The Salmonella Outbreak
The answer lies in a recent Salmonella outbreak linked to Jif peanut butter. In May 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that 14 people in 12 states had been infected with Salmonella after consuming Jif peanut butter.
The Jif Recall
In response to the outbreak, the J.M. Smucker Company, the manufacturer of Jif peanut butter, issued a voluntary recall of all Jif products with a lot code between 1274425 through 2140425. The recall included all sizes and varieties of Jif peanut butter sold in the United States.
The Production Shutdown
The recall and subsequent investigation into the Salmonella outbreak led to a temporary shutdown of production at the Jif peanut butter plant in Lexington, Kentucky. This shutdown has severely impacted the supply chain, resulting in the shortage of Jif peanut butter on store shelves.
Alternative Peanut Butters
While Jif peanut butter is currently out of stock, there are still plenty of alternative peanut butter options available. Some popular brands to consider include:
- Skippy
- Peter Pan
- Smucker’s
- Adams
- Crazy Richard’s
When Will Jif Peanut Butter Be Back in Stock?
The J.M. Smucker Company has stated that they are working diligently to resume production and restore the supply of Jif peanut butter. However, it is unclear exactly when Jif peanut butter will be back in stock.
What to Do If You Have Jif Peanut Butter
If you have any Jif peanut butter products with the recalled lot codes, it is important to dispose of them immediately. Do not consume the peanut butter or use it in any recipes.
Wrap-Up: The Peanut Butter Puzzle
The Jif peanut butter shortage is a reminder of the importance of food safety and the potential consequences of foodborne illness outbreaks. While Jif peanut butter is currently out of stock, it is expected to return to shelves once the production and supply chain issues are resolved. In the meantime, consumers can choose from a variety of alternative peanut butter options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the symptoms of Salmonella infection?
A: Symptoms of Salmonella infection can include diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.
Q: How can I prevent Salmonella infection from peanut butter?
A: To prevent Salmonella infection, it is important to purchase peanut butter from reputable brands and to store it properly.
Q: What should I do if I have consumed recalled Jif peanut butter?
A: If you have consumed recalled Jif peanut butter, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
