
Costco recalls salads after plastic contamination risk
Costco recalls salads after plastic contamination risk
- Costco recalled two salad products due to the discovery of plastic contamination.
- The affected products were sold in 34 U.S. states and Puerto Rico.
- Consumers are advised to return the products for a full refund, emphasizing safety.
Story
In early November 2025, Costco issued a voluntary recall for two of its salad products due to concerns about contamination with plastic. The recall affected consumers in 34 states across the United States, including territories like Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. The two affected products include a Caesar Salad and a Chicken Sandwich With Caesar Salad, which contained a 3-ounce sealed packet of Caesar dressing. The contamination was identified during routine quality checks conducted by Costco and its supplier, Ventura Foods, which led to the dissemination of a public safety announcement. The specific lot numbers for the recalled products are 19927 for the Caesar Salad and 11444 for the Chicken Sandwich With Caesar Salad. The sell-by dates of the affected lots range from October 17 to November 9. After the discovery of the plastic material in the salad dressing, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stepped in to issue a Class II risk warning. This classification indicates that the FDA perceives the potential health risks associated with consuming the affected products as remote, meaning that while they could cause temporary or reversible health issues, the likelihood of serious adverse effects is minimal. To mitigate this risk, Costco has advised consumers to cease consumption of the recalled salad items immediately and return them to their nearest Costco location for a full refund. The company's quick action is also part of their broader commitment to safety and customer satisfaction. As of now, there have been no reports of injuries or illness linked to the contamination, but the FDA's warning serves as a precautionary measure as they continue to investigate the full implications of this incident. The fallout from this recall highlights the critical importance of food safety protocols and the vigilant adherence to quality control throughout the supply chain. As investigations proceed, both Costco and the FDA emphasize the significance of public safety and consumer protection in these types of incidents. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed and check their pantry for the affected products, as well as to monitor any updates from the FDA regarding the investigation and further advice on ensuring food safety in the future.