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  5. E. coli 0157:H7 Model Press Release
  1. Industry Guidance For Recalls

E. coli 0157:H7 Model Press Release


 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
COMPANY CONTACT AND PHONE NUMBER
DATE
 

FOOD CO. RECALLS PRODUCT BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK

Company Name of City, State is recalling Quantity and/or Type of Product because it may be contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteria (E. Coli O157:H7). E. coli O157:H7 causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools. Although most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young children and the elderly. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.

Product was distributed Listing of states and areas where the product was distributed and how it reached consumers (e.g., through retail stores, mail order, direct delivery).

Specific information on how the product can be identified (e.g., type of container [plastic/metal/glass], size or appearance of product, product brand name, flavor, codes, expiration dates, etc.).

Status of the number of and types of related illnesses that have been CONFIRMED to date (e.g., "No illnesses have been reported to date."

Brief explanation about what is known about the problem, such as how it was revealed, and what is known about its source. An example of such a description -- "the recall was initiated after it was discovered that product was contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes."

Information on what consumers should do with the product and where they can get additional information (e.g., "consumers who have purchased Brand X are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-XXX-XXXX.)

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( SAMPLE PRESS RELEASE)

XYZ Inc.
123 Smith Lane
Anywhere, MS

 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sam Smith /555-555-5555
DATE
 

XYZ RECALLS "SNACKIES" BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK

XYZ Inc. of Anywhere, MS, is recalling its 5 ounce packages of "Snackies" food treats because they have the potential to be contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7. E. coli O157:H7 causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools. Although most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young children and the elderly; the condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.

The recalled "Snackies" were distributed nationwide in retail stores and through mail orders.

The product comes in a 5 ounce, clear plastic package marked with lot # 666666 on the top and with an expiration date of 12/12/99 stamped on the side.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the company detected the presence of E. coli O157:H7.

Production of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company continue their investigation as to the cause of the problem.

Consumers who have purchased 5 ounce packages of "Snackies" are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-XXX-XXXX.

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