Meat Products Recalled For Metal Fragments

Unibright Foods, based in Bell Gardens in Los Angeles County, has recalled nearly 50,000 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat beef and pork products that could possibly be contaminated with metal fragments.

According to a CBS Los Angeles news report, the company recalled 48,139 pounds of Mishima Sukiyaki Beef and Mishima Gingered Pork.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) officials said the products were shipped to retailers and institutions in seven states including California, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, New York and New Jersey.

The beef and pork both bear the establishment number “EST. 1163,” which is marked inside the USDA mark of inspection. The beef was produced between August 12 and December 16 ad the pork, August 5 and August 6.

The problem with the metal fragments was first discovered by an Illinois restaurant, which found a stainless steel wire in the beef products. The restaurant reported it to their distributor, which in turn alerted Unibright.

So far, no one has been injured or gotten sick as a result of eating these contaminated products, USDA officials said.

The Problem of Food Contamination

Recently a number of food products have been recalled due to contamination with metal fragments.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), metal fragments that are accidentally ingested can cause a number of injuries including lacerations to the mouth and damage to teeth.

More serious injuries include choking or perforation to the mouth and intestines.

How do metal fragments get in food products? Usually, because of contact with equipment such as wire mesh belts, injection needles and metal ties, during the production process.

Foods must be screened for contamination before they are delivered to consumers. Metal detectors are used for larger products or products such as bread and detailed visual inspection can also help prevent such contamination.

A stringent quality control process is critical.

If You Have Been Injured or Sickened

If you or a loved one has been injured or sickened as the result of a tainted or contaminated food product, please remember that you have rights.

Food producers and establishments that serve food have an obligation to consumers and customers to provide products that are clean and safe.

Those who are sickened by contaminated food can file a civil personal injury lawsuit against the food manufacturers, distributors and/or retailers seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization and pain and suffering.

Injured victims and their families would also be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who will help fight for their rights and hold the at-fault parties liable.