The Hemisphere Group, Inc. Recalls Vietnamese LP Cashews Because Of Possible Health Risk

The Hemisphere Group, Inc. of Smithtown, NY, is recalling 14,000 lbs. of Vietnamese LP Cashews, because they have 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 circumstances, 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.

The Vietnamese Cashews were distributed to direct customers in Kalamazoo, Michigan; North Billerica, Massachusetts; Maspeth, New York; plus Quebec and Scarborough, Canada. The direct customers were instructed to notify their accounts if the cashews had been distributed and to return them to The Hemisphere Group.

The following product is being recalled:

Product: Vietnamese LP Cashew Kernels (shelled)
Product: Vietnamese LP Cashew Kernels (shelled)
Net Weight: 50 lbs. bulk cartons
Packer: Hong Duc Company Limited
FDA No.: 16153193186 (on carton)
Hemisphere Code No. P95497

The firm has not received any reports of illnesses to date.

The recall was initiated as a result of a routine sampling program by the US Food and Drug Administration which revealed that the finished product was contaminated with the bacteria. The company has ceased the distribution of the product as FDA and the company continues their investigation as to what caused the problem.

Consumers are urged not to consume the affected lot of Vietnamese Cashew Kernels. Consumers who have purchased the affected lot of Vietnamese Cashew Kernels are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact The Hemisphere Group, Inc. at 1-800-339-8846 extension 32, Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, ET.