In a major nationwide notice, the J.M. Smucker Corporation has recalled large batches of Jif peanut butter due to concerns over possible salmonella contamination. Due to the long shelf life of peanut butter and the numerous types of packaging being recalled, ServSafe food managers should take action now to prevent foodborne illness risks in the long run.
How ServSafe Food Manager Should Approach Recall Problems
Many restaurants and other food outlets that use peanut butter sparingly enough that may simply purchase it in small quantities from grocery stores rather than large buckets from food service suppliers. ServSafe food managers that stock Jif peanut butter should take a close look at the recalled product ID numbers to ensure they do not have any potentially contaminated product on hand. If you do find recalled jars of peanut butter in storage, dispose of both opened and unopened containers.
Beyond jars of different sizes, this recall also affects smaller packages and grab-and-go style cups of Jif peanut butter. Cafeterias, hospitality businesses and other places that offer pre-packaged single-serving peanut butter cups need to investigate to see if these products have been recalled. These single-serving cups are not only available by themselves, but are also packaged in lunch kits and other grab-and-go snack packages.
Finally, you may want to consider disposing of product made with Jif peanut butter that was purchased during the dates contaminated peanut butter was shipped. It may sound like a drastic move, but if it saves your guests from salmonella poisoning risks, it may just be worth it.
Have you checked the FDA recall list lately?
