Frozen Taquito and Chimichanga Products Recalled for Plastic Pieces

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection (FSIS) has issued a recall alert for frozen beef and chicken taquitos and chimichangas. According to a news report, officials say these products contain diced green chilies that have been recalled by the producer Sun Valley Foods, and may contain extraneous materials, specifically hard plastic. These pieces of plastic may pose a choking hazard or cause injuries to the teeth or gums.

Details of the Recall

The frozen meat and poultry taquitos and chimichangas were produced by Ajinomoto Foods North America, which is based in Texas as well as here in San Diego, California. The recalled products bear the establishment number “EST 5590,” “P5590” or “EST. 17417” printed on the packaging above the expiration date. These products were shipped to retail locations nationwide.

Ajinomoto Inc. apparently discovered the problem when they identified pieces of hard plastic in their production process and in a barrel of diced green chilies that was received from their ingredients supplier, Sun Valley Foods. That company initiated a recall of the green chilies with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness is urged to contact a health care provider. Officials are saying those who still have these products at home should not consume them. They should be discarded or returned to the point of purchase.

The Danger of Contaminated Food

There have been a number of recent recalls involving extraneous items in food such as rubber, plastic and metal. When items such as glass pieces or metal pieces get mixed in with food, the consequences could be serious. People who consume this contaminated food may suffer oral injuries or even metal poisoning. They may suffer internal injuries if they ingest the metal pieces. Recent studies by the FDA have found that about 25% of all food-related complaints it received over a period of one year involved the presence of a visible foreign object. This same study also indicated that nearly 15% of those who complained had reportedly suffered an injury or illness relating to the foreign object.

If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of contaminated food or due to a defective product, you may be able to seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced California personal injury lawyer will be able to advise victims regarding their legal rights and options.