Pistachios Recalled by North County Company for Possible Salmonella Contamination

VISTA, CA: Don’t reach for that pistachio just yet.

A North County San Diego-based company, American Gourmet of Vista, recalled its American Gourmet Roasted/Salted Pistachios because they may be contaminated with salmonella, the Food and Drug Administration reported this week.

The FDA notice dated March 23 came after American Gourmet was informed by its pistachio supplier to initiate a voluntary recall.

The products were distributed in retail stores throughout San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

Pistachio-lovers wondering if theirs are safe to eat should check the “Best by” dates found on the lower bottom panel of the package. The recall affects packages with “Best by” dates between Nov. 5, 2016 and March 13, 2017. The pistachios are sold in three sizes: 2.5 ounces marked with a $1.99 retail price; 4.5 ounces for $2.99; and 7.5 ounces for $4.99.

Consumers can return their American Gourmet Roasted/Salted Pistachios with those expiration dates to the retail store purchased from for a full refund.

As of the notice date, there were no reported illnesses linked to the recall. Salmonella poisoning symptoms in otherwise healthy people can include fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, according to the FDA.

In rare circumstances, salmonella infection can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis. The organism can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, the FDA said.

Eleven people were sickened earlier this month when another California-based company, Wonderful Pistachios, issued a similar recall of its packages, which were sold by retailers including Trader Joe’s.

Questions about the American Gourmet recall may be directed to Maurice at 760-599-0480 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, according to the notice.

Also see:

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