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WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2000 --
The Food and Drug Administration warns that several brands of
five-layer dips are potentially contaminated with contagious
bacteria that causes serious digestive disorders.
The FDA says consumers should be alert for dips sold under the
brand names Senor Felix's, Trader Joe's, Delicioso, and The
Carryout Café because they have the potential to be contaminated
with Shigella sonnei bacteria.
The organism causes a form of bacterial
dysentery which can cause bloody diarrhea, cramps, fever, nausea
and vomiting and can possibly lead to hospitalization. Shigella
infection is serious and very contagious, but can be treated
though prompt medical attention.
The recalled five-layer dips contain
layers of black or pinto beans, salsa, guacamole, nacho cheese
and sour cream, among other ingredients. They were distributed
nationwide in retail stores and can be identified with the following
brand names:
Senor Felix's Five Layered Party
Dip Delicioso 5 Layer Dip Trader Joe's Five Layered Fiesta
Dip The Carryout Café Mexican
Fiesta Party Dip 5 Layer
All of the above products were manufactured by Senor Felix's
Gourmet Mexican Foods Inc., of Baldwin Park, Calif.
To date at least 49 illnesses (five hospitalizations) have
been reported.
These products were recalled voluntarily (with an accompanying
press release) by the company on January 22, after they were
linked to shigellosis outbreaks in several western states.
FDA is working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention and state health departments to track the affected
products and to identify the cause of the problem.
Consumers who have purchased any of the affected 5 layer
dips should return them to the place of purchase for a full
refund. Those who have consumed these recalled products and
have experienced symptoms of shigellosis should seek medical
attention. Consumers with questions may contact the company
at 1-800-807-7335.
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