nSpired Natural Foods of San Leandro, California is voluntarily recalling all MaraNatha Sesame Tahini in 16-oz sizes with a Use By Date of 04/11/08 and earlier, and 15-lb and 32-lb sizes with an expiration date of 01/05/08 (lot 07130) and earlier, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstance, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
MaraNatha Sesame Tahini was distributed nationally through distributors, retail stores, and mail order.
MaraNatha Sesame Tahini comes in a 16-oz glass jar, and 15-lb and 32-lb pails. Products affected are Organic Raw Sesame Tahini, Organic Roasted Sesame Tahini, Natural Raw Sesame Tahini and Natural Roasted Sesame Tahini.
There have been no confirmed cases of illness to date.
Potential salmonella contamination was discovered during routine, random sample testing by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. As a result, the company is voluntarily recalling this product as a precautionary measure and has put additional safety measures in place. No other products produced by the company, which include Almond Butter, Peanut Butter, Cashew Butter and Macadamia Nut Butter, are affected by this action.
Consumers who have purchased MaraNatha Sesame Tahini are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-883-8312.