Recall -- Firm Press Release

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URGENT RECALL: Undeclared Sulfites in Baraka Apricot Candies, from Lebanon

Contact:

Consumer:
Abdul Elkadri
313-350-8015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 27, 2011 - U.B.C Food Distributors Recalls “Baraka Apricot Candies” due to undeclared Sulfites/Preservatives.

U.B.C Food Distributors of Dearborn, MI is recalling 14.08 ounce (400g) cellophane wrapped, product of Lebanon “Baraka Apricot Candies” food treats because they were found to contain undeclared sulfites as preservatives. People who have sensitivities to sulfites run the risk of serious life-threatening reaction if they consume this product.

The recalled “Baraka Apricot Candies” Net Wt. 14.08 oz (400g), product of Lebanon, were distributed nationwide to retail stores.

The product comes in a Net Wt. 14.08 oz (400g), cellophane package with an expiration date of 5/2013 printed on the front panel. UPC 822514223719.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The recall was initiated because the state of New York found undeclared, high sulfite levels in the candies, during routine product sampling in December, 2011. It was discovered that the sulfites containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of sulfites as preservatives. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes.

Production of the product has been suspended until FDA and the company is certain that the problem has been corrected. The FDA is aware of this recall by U.B.C Food Distributors. U.B.C Food Distributors will take the necessary measures to recall the products.

Already steps have been taken to quarantine the product in our warehouse. In addition, we will contact customers to inform them that they need to pull this recalled product “Baraka Apricot Candies” Net Wt. 14.08 oz (400g), off their shelves and keep them in their storage room until we collect them.

Consumers who have purchased 14.08 ounce packages of "Baraka Apricot Candies" are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (877)-846-8117. Business hours are Monday through Friday 9 am – 6 pm, and Saturday 9 am – 4 pm.

Product Involved: Baraka Apricot Candies” Net Wt. 14.08 oz (400g)

Lot Number: 5/2013

Amount Distributed: 492

Date Distribution Started and Ended: Distribution started on July 20th, 2011 and ended on December 21st, 2011

Estimated amount remaining in the Market: 30

Area of Distribution: United States

Types of Consignees: Retailers

Manufacturer: Baraka Co. Al-Rafid, Bekaa, Lebanon

Distributor: U.B.C Food Distributor

Recalling Firm: U.B.C Food Distributors

Reason for Recall: Undeclared Sulfites as Preservatives

Depth of Recall: Retailers

Injuries or Complaints: No injury or complaints

Initial Recall Date and Method of Recall: Letter

How Did You Learn about this Problem: The recall was initiated because the State of New York, Department of Agriculture, found undeclared, high sulfite levels in the candies, during routine product sampling December, 2011

Firm Recall Plan: We will be retrieving the customers list that we sold to, calling the and informing them that they need to pull this recalled product of their shelves and keep it in their storage room till we collect them

Firm Official: Abdul Elkadri, 12812 Prospect St. Dearborn, MI, 313-846-8117, President and CEO
 

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