Mezzetta Recalls Pickled Peppers After Customer Reports Finding Rodent in Jar
A voluntary recall has been issued for a specific lot of Mezzetta golden Greek pepperoncini due to a potential pest contaminant.
Mezzetta, a California-based company, has initiated a voluntary recall of its 32 fl. oz. jars of golden Greek pepperoncini medium heat pickled peppers. The recall was prompted by a customer's social media post showing what appeared to be a rodent in a jar of the product. The company stated it is aware of the video and has contacted the consumer to investigate.
The affected products are identified by lot number 720106, which can be found near the barcode on the 32 fl. oz. jars. Consumers are advised not to eat the peppers and to return them to the store for a full refund. No injuries or illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall.
Mezzetta has requested to retrieve and examine the product in question and is reviewing production, sanitation, and food-safety records. The company stated that it immediately took action to identify where the product was distributed and worked with affected customers to remove it from sale. The specifics of how a rodent may have entered the product during production or harvesting are part of the ongoing investigation.
Pickled peppers are a common ingredient used as a topping for salads, sandwiches, and pizzas. While the brine's salty and acidic conditions can kill most bacteria, some, like E. coli, can potentially survive and cause illness if ingested. There is currently no evidence that the recalled peppers are contaminated with bacteria. The company has not specified how many jars were recalled or in which stores they were sold, though Mezzetta products are typically found in major grocery chains nationwide.
