News from New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets

For more information contact: Jessica Chittenden, 518-457-3136

Consumer Alert

Undeclared Sulfites in “Sun Ripened Apricots”

ALBANY, NY (02/07/2008; 1659)(readMedia)-- New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker today alerted consumers that International Food Source Inc., located at 52 Richboynton Road, Dover, NJ 07801, is recalling “Sun Ripened Apricots” due to the presence of undeclared sulfites. People who have severe sensitivity to sulfites may run the risk of serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume this product.

The recalled “Sun Ripened Apricots” are packaged in a 12-ounce plastic container, coded Best By: 09/09/08. The product was sold in Indiana, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas. It is a product of Turkey.

Routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets’ Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the product contained high levels of sulfites, which were not declared on the label. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reactions in some asthmatics. Anaphylactic shock could occur in certain sulfite sensitive individuals upon ingesting 10 milligrams or more of sulfites.

No illnesses have been reported to date to this Department in connection with this product. Consumers who have purchased “Sun Ripened Apricots” should return it to the place of purchase.

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