Unilever is conducting a voluntary nationwide recall of Slim-Fast Ready-To-Drink (FTD) products in cans. The Slim-Fast recall comes as a result of bacterial contamination. The RTD products are contaminated with Bacillus cereusm, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps anywhere from 30 minutes to 15 hours after being consumed.
The Slim-Fast recall is taking place in Canada as well, with Unilever Canada making the same statement. The Slim-Fast RTD recall involves products in four, six or 12 can packages, as well as single can sales. No other Slim-Fast products, such as energy bars or powdered meal replacements, are involved.
The Bacillus cereus found in the Slim-Fast recall is a soil-dwelling, Gram-positive, rod-shaped, bacterium. Not all strains are harmful to humans, but those that are cause foodborne illness. It is true, however, that bacillus cereus competes with salmonella in the intestines. Thus, in food animals such as chickens, some harmless strains are used as a probiotic feed additive to reduce Salmonella in the gut.
Slim-Fast began the Ready-to-Drink recall after conducting testing on canned Slim-Fast RTD products. The recall is not production date dependent. All RTD products in cans that are currently in distribution centers, on-shelf, in storerooms in retail outlets or in consumers' homes are being recalled.
Parent company Unilever is in the process of identifying and correcting the production issue. Production of Slim-Fast Ready-to-Drink (RTD) products will not resume until the issue has been addressed and corrected.
Consumers are urged to call Slim-Fast for a refund if they have any Slim-Fast Ready-To-Drink products in their home. Slim-Fast can be reached at 1-800-896-9479. The Consumer Services Center is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM ET. A recorded message is available 24/7.
Written by Michael Santo
HULIQ.com
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