Shernoff's Salad, Inc., Recalls Potato Salad

Contact:
Shernoff's Salads, Inc.
215-467-7880

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Philadelphia, PA -- June 30, 2006 --- Shernoff's Salads, Inc. of Philadelphia, PA is recalling Shernoff's brand Potato Salad because Listeria monocytogenes Poly O, type 1 was discovered in both environmental and product samples.  During an inspection, FDA reviewed the firm's environmental testing results and observed a positive result for Listeria in the manufacturing room.  Finished product was sampled and analytical results were positive for Listeria.  Listeria monocytogenes is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in babies, 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, listeriosis infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.  Persons who have consumed this product and experience any of these symptoms should seek the advice of a health care provider.

The potato salad was sold in 5-, 10- and 30-lb. plastic containers which were date coded "Use by 6/15/06." The product was distributed to processors in Pennsylvania and New Jersey who redistributed it in smaller containers to delis and restaurants. The labeling on the smaller containers is unknown therefore we recommend that if you bought potato salad from a deli in either Pennsylvania or New Jersey between 5/18/06 and 6/15/06 that you do consume any that may be remaining.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

Shernoff's Salads, Inc. was informed that Listeria monocytogenes was found in the manufacturing environment and product as a result of routine testing procedures.; Shernoff's voluntarily recalled product from consignees and informed them by telephone of the analytical results. They were urged to destroy any of the product remaining in inventory.

For further information on what consumers should do with the product or for any additional information, please contact the company at 215-467-7880.