USDA Warns Consumers After Massive Deli Meat Recall
More than 140,000 pounds of deli meat have been pulled from shelves after a major labeling mix-up triggered a federal recall.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced that Gaiser’s European Style Provisions Inc. is recalling 143,416 pounds of ready-to-eat bologna products that may contain undeclared pork, beef, or chicken.
The issue was first flagged after a complaint was filed with the Office of Inspector General’s hotline. When FSIS investigated the complaint, it determined that the products contained undeclared source materials.
While no illnesses have been reported, the USDA has issued a Class III recall, meaning the mislabeled meat is not expected to cause serious health consequences, but it still violates labeling standards and poses a risk for people with dietary restrictions or food allergies.
The bologna was sold between March 20 and June 20 under a wide variety of names. Here’s what to look for:
- Family Tree Bologna Veal
- Babushka’s Recipe Chicken Bologna
- Fancy Bologna
- Gaiser’s Russian Brand Doktorskaya Bologna
- Gaiser’s Bologna Veal
- Gaiser’s Turkey Bologna
- Chicken Bologna Kypoyka Paba
All affected products will have the establishment number “5385” printed inside the USDA inspection mark. In some cases, the meat may have been sliced and rewrapped at a deli counter, which could make it harder to identify.
The USDA recommends throwing away any suspect product or returning it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions can contact Gaiser’s at 908-686-3421 or gaisers@verizon.net.
While the agency doesn’t expect any adverse health effects, the recall highlights the importance of transparent labeling and the need for customers to check what’s really in their food, especially when it comes to processed meats.
Don't forget to check both your fridge and your freezer.