Federal health officials are urging consumers to check their refrigerators for ready-to-eat charcuterie meat products linked to a multi-state Salmonella outbreak that has sickened dozens of people across the country. Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc. has recalled thousands of pounds of these products, which were sold at wholesale and retail locations nationwide, including warehouse chains like Costco and Sam’s Club. This charcuterie meat recall is part of an ongoing investigation by federal and state health agencies.
Key Facts of the Recall
| Key Fact | Detail/Statistic |
| Product Recalled | Approx. 11,097 lbs of “Bussetto Foods Antipasto” charcuterie trays |
| Reason for Recall | Potential contamination with Salmonella bacteria. |
| Public Health Alert | A broader alert covers additional Fratelli Beretta products sold under various brand names. |
| Reported Illnesses | At least 104 people infected across 34 states. |
| Distribution | Products were shipped to Sam’s Club and Costco distribution centers nationwide. |
Details of the Charcuterie Meat Recall
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the initial recall by Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc., a Mount Olive, New Jersey-based company. The specific products recalled are 18-ounce plastic trays labeled “Bussetto Foods Antipasto” which contain prosciutto, sweet soppressata, and dry coppa.
The recalled packages are marked with “BEST IF USED BY APR 13 24” and a lot code of L075330300. They also bear the establishment number “EST. 7543B” inside the USDA mark of inspection. While the initial recall covered over 11,000 pounds, health officials have since expanded their investigation.
In a related public health alert, the FSIS advised consumers not to eat any lots of Fratelli Beretta brand antipasto trays due to potential under-processing, which could lead to pathogen contamination. This broader alert underscores the seriousness of the ongoing food safety investigation.
Health Risks: The Salmonella Outbreak
The recall is directly linked to a widespread Salmonella outbreak investigated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the FSIS, and state public health departments. As of the latest CDC update, the outbreak has resulted in at least 104 illnesses and 27 hospitalizations across more than 30 states.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause salmonellosis, a common foodborne illness. Symptoms typically appear 6 hours to 6 days after consuming contaminated food and include:
- Diarrhea (which can be bloody)
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
While most people recover without specific treatment within four to seven days, some individuals may experience more severe illness that requires hospitalization. Young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for severe infections. The CDC urges anyone who believes they have become ill from eating a recalled product to contact their healthcare provider immediately.
How the Contamination Was Discovered
The investigation began when the Minnesota Department of Agriculture identified the outbreak strain of Salmonella in an unopened package of the Bussetto Foods Antipasto during routine testing. The CDC’s investigation, which uses epidemiologic and laboratory data, subsequently linked illnesses reported across the country to this and similar charcuterie products.
“FSIS is continuing to work with the CDC and our state public health partners to investigate this outbreak,” the agency said in a statement. They have expressed concerns that some consumers may still have these products in their refrigerators or freezers.
What Consumers Should Do
Officials have issued clear guidance for consumers who may have purchased the affected products.
1. Check Your Refrigerator: Consumers should examine any charcuterie or antipasto products, especially those sold under the Bussetto or Fratelli Beretta brand names. Pay close attention to the lot codes and “Best By” dates mentioned in the recall notice.
2. Do Not Eat the Product: If you have one of the recalled products, do not consume it.
3. Dispose of or Return the Product: The FSIS advises consumers to either throw the products away or return them to the place of purchase. Full refunds should be provided.
4. Clean Contaminated Surfaces: The CDC recommends washing items and surfaces that may have touched the recalled products using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher. This helps prevent the spread of Salmonella.
The investigation into the full scope of the contamination is ongoing. Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or live chat via Ask USDA from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday.