Mozzarella Recall Announced For Unlisted Soy

A mozzarella recall has been issued by Mongiello Italian Cheese Specialties (DBA, Formaggio Italian Cheese Specialties) of Hurleyville, NY, due to “misbranding and an undeclared allergen, soy, which is not declared on the label.”

The Food Drug Administration issued a Class I Recall Health Risk (High) in the mozzarella recall, explaining that 234 pounds of fresh mozzarella with chorizo and cilantro were being recalled due to the soy issue.

In the release, the agency says:

“8-oz. packages of ‘FORMAGGIO Authentic Hand Rolled Fresh Mozzarella with Chorizo & Cilantro’ bearing the establishment number “EST. 34483” inside the USDA mark of inspection with “Use by Dates” prior to 5/31/2013.”

According to the FDA, the mozzarella recall involves products made before March 28, 2013, and sold in stores in New Jersey and New York. The agency adds:

“The problem was discovered by FSIS during a recent Food Safety Assessment. The problem occurred when the company changed chorizo suppliers. FSIS and the company have received no reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of this product. Anyone concerned about a reaction should contact a healthcare provider. ”

The risk is high for those with soy allergies, and severe reaction could result if the product is consumed by an allergic consumer without knowledge of the soy contamination.

The company explains the inclusion of soy that prompted the mozzarella recall stemmed from a switch in chorizo suppliers.

Earlier this week, a pizza recall was issued affecting DiGiorno and Nestle affecting frozen pizzas, but the recall of those products were not related to the mozzarella recall.

Consumers with questions about the mozzarella recall issued Thursday are advised to call Ricky Pagan, Senior Vice President of Operations, at (845) 436-4200, ext. 129.