A food product recall has been issued in Wisconsin due to a safety issue with a spinach artichoke dip. The product, called River Valley Ranch & Kitchens Spinach Artichoke Dip Mix, was recalled on December 19, 2024, and concerns were raised when it was found to have undergone insufficient processing.
This article explains why this recall was necessary, what “underprocessing” means, and how this could impact consumer health.
The Reason for the Recall
The recall was triggered by a problem with the way the dip was processed. The product did not go through the necessary safety steps to ensure it was free from harmful bacteria and pathogens. This lack of proper processing could mean that dangerous bacteria, such as Listeria monocytogenes or Salmonella, could survive in the dip.
These bacteria can cause serious health issues if consumed. Without proper heating or pasteurization, harmful microorganisms can survive and pose a risk to consumers.
What is Underprocessing?
“Underprocessing” refers to food that has not gone through the correct safety treatments, like pasteurization or sterilization, that are needed to kill harmful bacteria.
The FDA issued this recall because the dip did not go through the necessary heating process, which could have allowed dangerous bacteria like Clostridium botulinum to thrive. This type of bacteria can cause botulism, a severe illness that leads to muscle paralysis and even death if untreated.
The Health Risks of Botulism
Botulism is caused by the Clostridium botulinum bacteria, which can grow in low-oxygen, low-acid environments, such as those found in improperly processed dips. If someone eats contaminated dip, the botulinum toxin can block signals between nerves and muscles, leading to muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, death.
Although this is a rare condition, it is critical to avoid consumption of any underprocessed food that could carry this toxin.
FDA’s Risk Level Classification
On January 22, 2025, the FDA assigned a Class III risk level to the recall. This is the least severe of the FDA’s risk categories. According to the FDA, a Class III recall means that the product is unlikely to cause serious health problems.
However, the recall still serves as a precaution to protect consumers and prevent potential risks associated with the underprocessing issue.
Affected Product Details
A total of 224 jars of the dip were involved in the recall. The jars have a UPC code of 6 92016-40021 1, and the recall includes three specific batches of the product. These batches are labeled with the codes 40124113001, 40124113002, and 40124113003. Consumers who have purchased this dip are advised to check the labels on their jars and avoid consuming them.
What to Do if You Have the Product
If you have purchased any jars of the River Valley Ranch & Kitchens Spinach Artichoke Dip Mix, you should immediately stop using it and discard it. The company has issued a voluntary recall, and the FDA is closely monitoring the situation.
If you have any concerns about health issues or have consumed the product, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you feel unwell.
While the risk from this recall is classified as low, it’s still important to pay attention to food safety warnings and recall notices.
Underprocessed foods can lead to serious health problems, especially if harmful bacteria are allowed to grow. Always check for product recalls, and ensure the food you consume has been processed safely. By doing so, you protect yourself and others from potential health risks.
