Johnsonville recalls bratwurst contaminated with plastic
- Johnsonville, LLC recalled over 22,000 pounds of cheddar bratwurst after hard plastic was reported in the product.
- The recall involved sausages shipped to retailers in 10 states, highlighting the widespread impact on consumers.
- Consumers are advised to return the affected products for a refund and to contact health providers if there are concerns.
In February 2025, Johnsonville, LLC, a company based in Momence, Illinois, produced cheddar bratwursts that were later found to be contaminated with hard plastic. The United States Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced a recall of about 22,672 pounds of this product after receiving complaints from consumers who reported discovering foreign material in the sausages. The specific item recalled was packaged in 19-ounce sealed trays containing five pieces, marked with the package code B9FOD and establishment number Est. 1647. Consumers across 10 states, including Georgia, Indiana, and Wisconsin, had purchased these bratwursts, raising safety concerns about their consumption. The potential risk was identified after Johnsonville alerted the FSIS about the two reported incidents involving hard plastic found in their bratwursts. At the time of the recall announcement, no injuries had been confirmed as a result of consuming the affected sausages. However, the FSIS urged consumers to refrain from eating the bratwursts and advised returning the recalled items for a refund or disposal. This incident reflects ongoing challenges in food safety management, where foreign materials can occasionally contaminate packaged products before they reach consumers. In light of this recall, Johnsonville issued a public statement, reiterating the safety of their products and the significance of consumer feedback in ensuring food quality. The FSIS's proactive measures showcase their commitment to monitoring food safety and the industry's response to consumer complaints in real-time. Reassuring customers about the food production process and the actions taken following such incidents is crucial for maintaining public trust in food brands. The comprehensive nature of the recall and the clear communication from both Johnsonville and the FSIS highlight the importance of consumer safety and the vigilance required in food manufacturing. Preventing similar mishaps in the future necessitates stricter oversight and protocols within the industry to ensure that food products are free from contaminants before reaching the marketplace.