Perona Farms Food Specialties Recalls "Smoked Salmon Dip" Because of Possible Health Risks

Perona Farms Food Specialties

Media Contacts:	Daniel Leto
		(973) 729-7878

ANDOVER, NEW JERSEY, April 6, 1999 - Perona Farms is recalling all of its "Smoked Salmon Dip" in all flavors, and 8oz. packages because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria monocytogenes is an organism, which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The recalled "Smoked Salmon Dip" in question is lot # 0040 with an expiration date 4-22-99. Perona Farms is voluntarily recalling all lots that have ever been produced of the salmon dip and its varieties, including Moroccan, Scampi, and Pastrami as a precautionary measure. The product comes in clear, 8oz., plastic containers and can be identified by the green Perona Farms' Label.

This product is retail, sold through stores of four supermarket chains; Shop Rite, Price Chopper/Golub, Weis Markets, and Ukrop. Stores of these chains are located in the following states: NY, NJ, MA, VT, CT, PA, DE, MD, VA, and DC. This product was also sold through various Beverage and Party Stores, as well as, Gourmet and Specialty Shops in the above states and also in NC, KY, and IN.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. The potential for contamination was noted after a scheduled inspection by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in 8oz.containers of Smoked Salmon Dip.

The production of the product has been suspended while the FDA and Perona Farms investigate the source of the problem. Consumers that have purchased any of the 8oz. containers of Smoked Salmon Dip, in any flavors, are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Consumers with questions may contact Perona Farms at 800-750-6190.