Urgent Recall: 24,000lbs of Chicken Suspected to Contain Plastic Shards

Major Recall of Chicken Sausages Due to Plastic Contamination

A significant recall has been issued for a popular chicken sausage product in the United States, as health officials warn consumers about potential dangers. The affected product, "All Natural Al Fresco Chicken Sausage Sweet Apple with Vermont Maple Syrup," was voluntarily recalled by Massachusetts-based Kayem Foods Inc. The company is taking this step after customers reported finding white pieces of plastic inside the sausages.

The USDA has confirmed that the issue was discovered after the company notified them of three consumer complaints regarding the presence of plastic fragments. This recall involves 24,000 pounds of the product, which was produced on June 28, 2025, and has a use-by or freeze-by date of October 1, 2025. Each 11-ounce package contains four sausages and includes specific lot codes and inspection numbers on the packaging.

These sausages were distributed across 26 states, Washington DC, and Puerto Rico, with major retailers including Walmart being among the sellers. Although no injuries have been reported so far, the USDA has urged consumers who may have purchased the product to avoid eating it and instead dispose of it or return it for a refund.

The presence of foreign materials such as plastic in food products can pose serious risks, including choking hazards. According to statistics, approximately 5,000 Americans die from choking each year, with children and the elderly being particularly vulnerable due to difficulties in swallowing. While the exact cause of contamination remains unclear, it is often linked to machine fragments or improper packaging during the production process.

This recall is part of a growing trend of similar incidents involving foreign materials in food products. Recently, another major grocery chain, Publix, issued two recalls for its ground beef products within a week, also due to the presence of foreign objects. These recalls impacted several locations in Georgia, and earlier in May, the company faced a baby food recall over concerns of lead contamination. However, no illnesses were reported in these cases.

In addition to the recent Kayem Foods recall, another brand, Johnsonville, faced a similar issue in April when it recalled its cheddar bratwursts due to reports of plastic contamination. Although no injuries occurred, the company advised consumers to discard the affected products or return them for a refund. The sausages were produced on February 5 and were sold in 10 states.

Johnsonville, one of the most popular sausage brands in the US, is known for its high sales volume and global reach. The company reported the contamination to the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service, which then issued the recall. Officials emphasized that consumers should not consume the affected products and should either throw them away or return them to the point of purchase.

Another recent recall involved Tony's Chocolonely chocolates, which were recalled due to the possibility of containing hard or sharp foreign objects. This highlights an ongoing concern about food safety and the need for vigilance among both manufacturers and consumers.

As these recalls continue to emerge, it is crucial for consumers to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. If you have any questions about the Kayem Foods recall, you can contact Joellen West at 617-889-1600 x247 or jwest@kayem.com. Stay alert and check the labels on your food products to avoid potential hazards.