Hy-Vee Inc. Recalls Peanut Butter Products

Headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa, Hy-Vee Inc. has voluntarily recalled several of their products that contain peanut butter, after Peanut Corporation of America announced Salmonella was linked to their products. The peanut butter recall has affected a number of businesses, and though Peanut Corporation of America does not sell directly to the consumer market, they do sell to other companies who use the peanut butter in their products. Kellogg's has just recalled several of their products under the brand names Keebler, Famous Amos, and Austin and now Hy-Vee Inc. has followed suit.

The peanut butter goods, crafted by Hy-Vee Inc. involved in the recall include: Peanut Butter Cookies, Monster Cookies, Peanut Butter Reese's Pieces Cookies, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, Lunchbox Reese's Pieces Cookies, Lunchbox Peanut Butter Cookies, People Chow Party Mix and Assorted Truffle Fudge. Though there have been no reports of Salmonella illness directly related to these goods, Hy-Vee Inc. is not taking any chances and is encouraging all customers to discard any previously purchased products.

Salmonella poisoning symptoms include vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps, muscle pain and tension, fever, chills, and the feeling of general malaise. Though many people might develop Salmonella poisoning and fight the condition without suffering serious consequence, it can be very dangerous for those with compromised or weak immune systems. The elderly and very young are extremely susceptible to developing complications after exposure to Salmonella and anyone who believes they have the condition should be examined by their health care provider. Since vomiting and diarrhea are two common symptoms, the patient is vulnerable to dehydration.

The recalled products are identifiable by the Hy-Vee logo on the packaging or price tag and the recall affects all products, they aren't limited to a specific expiration or manufacturing date. Hy-Vee recommends destroying the food goods or returning the products to Hy-Vee Inc. for a refund.

Currently, the Hy-Vee peanut butter recall is in effect for seven states, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Minnesota, Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa. However, this is subject to change at any time, as Hy-Vee has sent additional samples for further testing.

The Salmonella Peanut Butter recall has affected 43 states and as more people report illnesses, it is possible that more companies will join with the recall. There have currently been six deaths and over 450 reports of illness involved in the Salmonella outbreak and the FDA and CDC have been working to ensure that all contaminated peanut butter products are identified and removed.