USDA warns chorizo made in San Antonio, sold at H-E-B stores may contain plastic, metal

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has issued a public health alert about raw pork chorizo processed in San Antonio, saying the product may be contaminated with hard plastic and metal.

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) received a consumer complaint about the materials being found in vacuum-sealed packages of “Lean Apco Brand Meats All Natural Premium Chorizo.” The 12-oz. packages feature a best-by date of May 12, 2024 and the establishment number EST. 602 inside the USDA mark of inspection.

An undisclosed amount of units were sold in H-E-B stores across Texas, according to the federal agency.

Apco is a brand processed by San Antonio Packing Co., 1922 S. Laredo Street. The locally owned plant has operated for more than 80 years, according to its website. The facility processes and packs sausages, cut meats, steaks, ham, bacon and chorizo.

FSIS officials said there have been no confirmed reports of injury or illness due to consumption of the product. However, they added that some consumers may still have it in their refrigerators or freezers.

Those who discover they have purchased the chorizo are urged not to consume it, and should trash it or return it to the place of purchase.

Unlike a formal recall, which is a voluntary action by a manufacturer or distributor, a public health alert is issued by the FSIS to inform the public about potential health risks. In this case, officials said, a recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.

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This article appears in May 1-14, 2024.