SACRAMENTO - California Department of Health Services (CDHS) Director Diana Bontá, R.N., Dr.P.H., warned consumers today not to drink several milk products that have been voluntarily recalled because they contain penicillin, an antibiotic that can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals. The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) announced the recall of the milk products earlier today.
Individuals with a history of penicillin reaction or multiple allergen sensitivity may experience a severe life-threatening allergic condition called anaphylactic shock within minutes to hours of exposure to penicillin. Symptoms of severe allergic reactions include swelling of the throat and airway, and difficulty in breathing. This condition requires emergency medical treatment
Alta Dena is the latest brand added to the list of recalled milk products, which includes Berkeley Farms, Dairy Dawn, Ralph's, Mountain Dairy, Sysco (Wholesome Farms), Smart & Final, Albertson's, Good Day and Best Yet with the "sell-by" dates listed below. These products were sold primarily in retail stores, schools and other institutions from Monday morning, June 10, through Thursday, June 13 in California and possibly in surrounding states.
Only milk products with the plant codes of 06-407 or 6-21 and sell by dates of June 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, and July 2 have been found to be contaminated with the antibiotic. No illnesses or adverse reactions from these milk products have been reported.
CDFA, which detected the antibiotic contamination during routine sampling, is leading the investigation to determine the source of the contamination.
The manufacturer, Berkeley Farms of Hayward, initiated a voluntary recall of these products after routine tests showed they may contain penicillin. Antibiotic residues should not be in milk or milk products.
Penicillin used to treat infections in individuals can sometimes result in mild adverse effects or allergic reactions, usually within 24 hours, such as rash, fever or diarrhea. Individuals who have consumed the milk products and experience any of these symptoms should consult their physician or health care provider.
Consumers who have purchased these products should discard the milk or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Consumers with questions may contact Berkeley Farms at
1-888-647-3326 or visit the Berkeley Farms Web site at http://www.berkeleyfarms.com/.
Berkeley Farms Milk Products
Recalled Brands, Product Types, Sizes and Sell-By Dates
Brands include: Berkeley Farms, Dairy Dawn, Ralph's, Mountain Dairy, Sysco (Wholesome Farms), Smart & Final, Albertson's, Alta Dena, Good Day and Best Yet.
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