California Firm Recalls Egg Rolls Because of Undeclared Egg Whites

WASHINGTON, February 25, 1999--Family Loompya Corporation, a National City, Calif., firm is voluntarily recalling approximately 190,000 pounds of egg rolls because the product may contain undeclared egg whites, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service announced today.

Egg white is a known allergen. Persons who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

The egg roll products that may be identified by consumers have a "Best If Used By" code on the package. All codes with use by dates between 082999 (which represents August 29, 1999) and 021100 (which represents February 11, 2000) are being recalled. "Est. 9251" appears inside the USDA seal of inspection. The products being recalled are:

• "Philippine Style Egg Rolls, LUMPIA, Savory Beef and Vegetables in a Thin Crispy Wrapper;"

• "Philippine Style Egg Rolls, LUMPIA, Savory Chicken and Vegetables in a Thin Crispy Wrapper;"

• "Philippine Style Egg Rolls, LUMPIA, Savory Pork and Vegetables in a Thin Crispy Wrapper;" and

• "Philippine Style Egg Rolls, LUMPIA, Savory Pork and Shrimp and Vegetables in a Thin Crispy Wrapper."

The Family Loompya products were distributed to markets in southern California and Washington state, and to military commissaries throughout the United States, and in Japan, South Korea, Guam, and Iceland.

"Because of the potential hazard for people with egg allergies, we urge consumers to immediately check their refrigerators and freezers. If they find the recalled product, consumers with a sensitivity to egg products should not eat them and should return them to the point of purchase," said Margaret Glavin, associate administrator of USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service.