A public health alert has been issued for ready-to-eat beef jerky because some products may contain an undeclared allergen.
Three separate jerky products are affected, including 6oz Dried Hawaiian style beef crisps, in original salt and pepper flavor, as well as 4oz packets of Punahele Jerky Company’s Uncle K’s Beef Crisps and Kilauea Spicy Beef Crisps.
The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) issued the alert because the products may contain soy lecithin, an allergen. However, this ingredient is not listed on the label, posing a hidden danger to people who have a soy allergy.
Products with best-by dates on or before February 17, 2027, are affected.
The items were sold at retail stores in Hawaii and online nationwide.
A recall was not issued because the products are no longer available for sale, but officials fear they may still be in people’s pantries.
According to FSIS, there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions related to the products.
‘FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers’ pantries. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase,’ the agency said.
Ready-to-eat beef jerky has been recalled due to potential allergic reaction risks (stock image)
One of the varieties of recalled jerky
The recall was not given a classification, but it is possible it will be designated Class I, which refers to ‘a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.’
About 1.5 to two million Americans have a soy allergy, making it one of the country’s most common allergens.
Symptoms of an allergy include hives, wheezing, coughing, congestion, face and throat swelling and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
This is a life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs very quickly after being exposed to an allergen.
Experts estimate 150 to 200 Americans die from allergen-induced anaphylaxis every year.
It triggers an extreme immune response, leading to dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath and vomiting.
If not treated quickly with epinephrine (adrenaline), which can be administered via injection like an EpiPen or nasal spray, a person can die.
‘Anyone concerned about a reaction should contact a health care provider,’ FSIS said.
The agency said consumers with questions regarding the public health alert can contact Sabrina Vaughn, Food Safety and QA Compliance Officer, at 808-961-0877.
