RECALL: Tahineh Recalled for Possible Salmonella Contamination

Information from the US Food and Drug Administration:

Tony’s Imports and Exports of Clovis CA, is warning consumers, food distributors and food processors not to consume or purchase certain containers of AL-RABIH Tahineh (Sesame Paste) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. A total of 141 pails, of AL-RABIH Tahineh, were stolen from Tony’s Imports and Exports warehouse where it was awaiting destruction due to Salmonella contamination. 

Salmonella is 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 the 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. 

The Tahineh is sold in white plastic pails with a label that reads: 

“AL-RABIH Tahineh, 100% Sesame, net weight 40 lb. (18 kg)”. The Tahineh is a product of Lebanon. Above the label, the following information is provided: “Imported by Tony Khorozian, Tony’s Imports & Exports, Tel S.S.F. 650-872- 6534, Fresno: 415 412- 1985 Best Before February 2014”. The Tahineh is a product of Lebanon.

The theft of the Tahineh occurred in June, 2012 but was not discovered until an FDA Investigator visited the warehouse to witness the destruction of the tainted product. The theft had been reported to the Clovis Police Department and a report was filed.

Tony’s Import and Export asks food distributors or manufacturers who believe that they may have purchased the Tahineh to immediately discontinue use of the product and destroy it. If the product was used for further manufacturing, please consider recalling the product. Food suppliers and manufacturers are asked to contact Tony’s Import and Exports, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific Time, if they have purchased the product or have been offered the Tahineh for purchase.