Crystal Farms Initiates Voluntary 13-State Recall

Date of Recall

2004-04-23

Recall Details

Minneapolis, MN -- April 23, 2004 -- Crystal Farms Refrigerated Distribution Company, Inc., a subsidiary of Michael Foods, Inc., is recalling 451 cases of two specific margarine products because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, 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 headaches, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The precautionary recall takes effect immediately and involves retail stores in 13 states (Arkansas, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Wisconsin).

The two margarine products involved are:

• Crystal Farms 60% Margarine -- 40% Butter, Butter Blend Margarine Quarters (UPC 75925-21004). Bright orange box with expiration dates of 6/28/04 and 7/14/04
• Crystal Farms 60% Margarine -- 40% Butter, Butter Blend Margarine Solids
  (UPC 75925-21000). Bright orange wrapper with expiration date of 6/28/04

Customers are asked not to consume these products and instead return the products to the place of purchase for a prompt and full cash refund. No other Crystal Farms products are affected by this action. To date, there have been no reports of illness related to the products subject to this recall.

The margarine products subject to the recall are made with product from Zander's Creamery Inc. of Cross Plains, Wis. The recall was initiated following notification by Zander's that its margarine products are being recalled based on possible contamination by Listeria monocytogenes in its food service line. As such, we are making this voluntary recall on a precautionary basis.

"Consumer safety is the top priority of Crystal Farms so we are initiating a voluntary recall of these two margarine products," said Crystal Farms President Mark Anderson. "I'd like to reiterate that there have not been any illnesses and that this recall ONLY relates to these two Crystal Farms Margarine Blends. This recall does NOT extend to any other Crystal Farms products."

Consumers with questions can contact Crystal Farms' toll-free customer service number 1-800-672-8260.

Michael Foods, Inc. is a diversified food processor and distributor with particular interests in egg products, refrigerated grocery products and refrigerated potato products. Principal subsidiaries include Papetti's Hygrade Egg Products, M.G. Waldbaum Co., Crystal Farms Refrigerated Distribution Co., Inc., and Northern Star Co.

States Affected:

Arkansas
Iowa
Illinois
Kansas
Michigan
Minnesota
Montana
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Dakota
Wisconsin

Crystal Farms 60% Margarine – 40% Butter, Butter Blend Margarine Quarters
UPC Code 75925-21004

Crystal Farms 60% Margarine – 40% Butter, Butter Blend Margarine Solids
UPC Code 75925-21000

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