Michigan company recalls ground black pepper after testing shows Salmonella

UBC Food Distributors in Dearborn, MI is recalling ground black pepper under the brand name Baraka in 7-ounce plastic containers with UPC code 8 22514 26626 6 because it may be contaminated with Salmonella.

The recalled “black pepper” was distributed in stores nationwide.

The product comes in a 7-ounce clear plastic jar with an expiration date of January 2026 on the back of the label, according to the company’s recall notice posted by the Food and Drug Administration.

No diseases associated with this problem have been reported so far.

The potential for contamination was noted after the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development notified the company of the contamination based on a routine state surveillance sample collected by the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets that tested positive for Salmonella in approximately 7 ounces packs of ground black pepper.

Production of the product has been suspended while the FDA and the company continue their investigation into the cause of the problem.

Consumers who purchased a 7-ounce container of ground black pepper are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions can contact the company at 313-846-8117.

About Salmonella infections
Food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria usually does not look, smell or taste spoiled. Anyone can become ill from a Salmonella infection. According to the CDC, infants, children, seniors and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for serious illness because their immune systems are fragile.

Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled peppers and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention. Microscopic amounts of pepper can contain enough Salmonella to make someone sick. Sick people should tell their doctor about possible exposure to Salmonella bacteria, because special tests are needed to diagnose salmonellosis. Symptoms of Salmonella infection can mimic other diseases, often leading to misdiagnosis.

Symptoms of a Salmonella infection may include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours of eating contaminated food. Otherwise, healthy adults are usually sick for four to seven days. However, in some cases, the diarrhea can be so severe that patients require hospitalization.

Older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, are more likely to develop serious illness and serious, sometimes life-threatening conditions.

Some people become infected without becoming ill or showing symptoms. However, they can still spread the infections to others.

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