July 28, 2011

Pilgrim's Pride extends ready-to-eat poultry product recall

Pilgrim's Pride Corporation is expanding last week's voluntary recall of ready-to-eat chicken products to Fully Cooked Chicken Breast Nuggets due to possible Listeria Monocytogenes contamination.

The expanded recall involves approximately 7,072 pounds of Pilgrim's Pride Brand Fully Cooked Chicken Breast Nuggets that were shipped to 57 Dollar General stores in West Virginia, Tennessee, Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Georgia, Florida and Alabama.

The recalled product was sold in 2-lb. bags and carries the best-by date of June 2, 2012, and UPC number 77013 16224. It was produced in the Pilgrim's plant in Mt. Pleasant, Texas. Pilgrim's is working closely with Dollar General to locate the entire recalled product.

"Food safety is our top priority and we take product recalls very seriously," said Kendra Waldbusser, senior vice president of food safety and quality assurance.

Waldbusser said during the past week the company conducted a detailed review of its quality assurance processes, work systems and plant-level controls. During that internal examination, a potential issue involving this product was identified.

"As a precaution to our customers and consumers, we have expanded the recall to this Pilgrim's brand product," she said. "We have identified the source of the potential contamination and have taken corrective action. At the same time, we are implementing best practices that include improved product testing at our plants. We are confident that these measures will help ensure the continued quality and safety of our products."

Pilgrim's is not aware of any illnesses or adverse reactions due to consuming this product.