Kayem Foods Recalls Nearly 1.6 Million Pounds of Meat Products Due to Potential Bacterial Contamination
The recall, classified as Class I, is due to potential temperature abuse during storage and distribution.
Massachusetts-based Kayem Foods Inc. is recalling approximately 1.584 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products nationwide and in Hong Kong due to concerns that the products may not have been stored at appropriate temperatures. This temperature abuse could allow harmful bacteria to grow, posing a serious health risk to consumers.
The recalled products, which include items such as hot dogs, bologna, sausages, bratwurst, brisket, bacon, corned beef, ham, chicken sausages, liverwurst, and turkey breast, were produced between March 31, 2026, and October 7, 2026. The issue was identified following a retail customer complaint on October 1 regarding warm product temperatures upon delivery. An subsequent investigation by Kayem Foods revealed that the products were stored in a warehouse cooler that experienced temperature deviations.
The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has classified this recall as its highest Class I level, indicating a reasonable probability that the use of the food will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. While no illnesses have been reported in connection with these products, the FSIS is concerned that consumers may still have the recalled items in their homes.
Potential bacterial threats from improperly stored meat and poultry include listeria monocytogenes, salmonella, campylobacter, E. coli, clostridium perfringens, and staphylococcus aureus. Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that can lead to fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and convulsions, and can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Salmonella is a leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., causing millions of infections annually, with symptoms including diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Severe cases can lead to hospitalization and, in some instances, sepsis.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled products are advised not to consume them. They should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. A complete list of the recalled items is available on the FSIS website.