Multiple products from companies in the U.S. and Canada are being recalled due to contamination with foreign materials. This includes items made unsafe by the presence of objects like wood, metal, or plastic. Consuming these products can lead to serious health risks such as choking, injuries, or even worse.
Recently, Nestlé USA, based in Arlington, Virginia, initiated a recall for some of its Lean Cuisine and STOUFFER’S frozen meals. This is due to the potential presence of wood-like materials found in these items.
Another alert comes from Stiebs, LLC in California, which is recalling around 25,484 cases of frozen Organic Acai Bowls for possible contamination with blue plastic pieces. This recall was first announced on February 7, 2025.
On February 9, 2025, HEB in Texas recalled 45 lbs of various Spinach Artichoke Dips because they may contain metal fragments.
Del Monte Foods, Inc., from Walnut Creek, California, also announced a recall on February 12, 2025, for more than 8,000 cases of Good & Gather Cut Green Beans due to foreign object contamination.
In Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is involved in recalling Fresh Lean Ground Beef due to plastic contamination at K-Tilbury Food Market Ltd. in Ontario.
In January 2023, a study from the Food Safety and Inspection Service found that contamination from foreign materials in food products is a growing concern, particularly as the number of processed foods increases. Experts suggest that manufacturers need to enhance safety protocols during production and packaging to reduce these incidents.
The Lean Cuisine and STOUFFER’S products were distributed to major retailers across the U.S. from September 2024 to March 2025. The Organic Acai Bowls reached seven distribution centers spanning California to Virginia. The Spinach Artichoke Dip was sold exclusively in Texas, while the Good & Gather Cut Green Beans were distributed to Target stores in several states.
Here are some details about the affected products:
- **Lean Cuisine Butternut Squash Ravioli** – several batch numbers up to March 2026.
- **Organic Acai Bowl with berries and granola** – various expiry dates through late 2025.
- **Spinach Artichoke Dip** – specifically impacted products sold at HEB grocery stores.
- **Good & Gather Cut Green Beans** – UPC code 0 85239-11628 9, best by October 28, 2026.
- **Fresh Lean Ground Beef** – sold in variable sizes at Foodland in Ontario, Canada.
Consumers are urged to check their pantries for these products. If you have any of the recalled items, stop using them immediately, even if they appear safe. It’s important to remember that food can look fine but still be contaminated. The safest approach is to return these items to the store for a refund or dispose of them responsibly.
In case of any health issues after exposure to these products, it’s crucial to contact a healthcare professional right away. The risks are particularly high for vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly.
As a prominent food safety lawyer points out, “Do not underestimate the risks of food contamination. Always err on the side of caution.” For further information or concerns about the recalls, you can reach out to the respective companies or their customer service hotlines. Keeping informed is key to ensuring your family’s safety.
For more insight into food safety and recalls, visit the [Food Safety and Inspection Service](https://www.fsis.usda.gov) for resources and updates.