How the HVP Recall Affects Consumers

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a food recall of the flavoring additive hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP). The HVP recall information came to the FDA via reports from a customer of Basic Food Flavors, Inc. (an HVP provider), indicating salmonella in the product. FDA investigators at Basic Food Flavors' plants verified the food poisoning claim.

HVP is frequently used in processed foods such as soups, sauces, snacks, dips and dressings.

HVP Recall Efforts

The FDA has said its efforts are preventative, as it identifies which companies use HVP and need to be notified about the food recall. Basic Food Flavors is recalling all HVP produced since Sept. 17, 2009 in hopes of halting further use and minimizing foods affected by HVP.

No illnesses or food poisoning claim associated with salmonella in HVP products has been reported thus far. Food recall investigation efforts are ongoing, according to the FDA.

Foods Affected by HVP Recall

The FDA has also prepared a cumulative list on its website showing the foods affected by the hydrolyzed vegetable protein recall. Consumers are urged to be aware of these foods, and to avoid their consumption.

Following is a partial list of foods, brands and stores affected by the HVP recall:

• Herbox (bouillon)
• Salad Dressings: Trader Joe's, Reser's
• Garden Harvest (seasoning)
• Frozen Foods: El Pasado, Jose Ole, Tornados, Posada
• Gravy Mixes: McCormick, Publix
• Sauces/Marinades: Durkee, French's, Weber
• Snacks: CVS, Great Nut Supply, Hawaiian, Herr's, President's Choice, Pringles, Quaker, Safeway
• Soups & Dips: Concord Foods, Culinary Circle, Follow Your Heart, McCormick, T. Marzetti, Homemade Gourmet

The most dangerous foods affected by HVP recall are those requiring little or no cooking. For this reason, McCormick Stuffing and some hotdogs are also foods affected by the HVP recall.

Salmonella Food Poisoning Claim

The HVP recall occurred because of salmonella. If you consumed any foods affected by the HVP recall and became ill, you may have a food poisoning claim if your symptoms included:

• Fever
• Diarrhea (and/or bloody diarrhea)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain

The FDA has enlisted the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to monitor any food poisoning claim that may be associated with the HVP recall. If your doctor diagnosed you with food poisoning after you ate foods affected by the HVP recall, you should contact a Massachusetts personal injury attorney.

A food poisoning claim may become necessary if salmonella enters your bloodstream and causes serious illness or damage. Keep in mind that this food recall only concerns HVP from Basic Food Flavors, Inc.