Gretchen’s Shoebox Express Voluntarily Recalls Expired Protein Bistro Boxes Because of Possible Health Risk

Contact
Consumer:
Henry Carruth
(206) 623-8194
info@shoeboxexpress.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 2, 2012 Out of the utmost caution and care for our customers, and in response to Justin’s Nut Butter voluntary recall of its’ 0.5 oz. single-serve Honey Peanut Butter squeeze packs, Gretchen’s Shoebox Express in Seattle, Washington, is initiating a voluntary recall of Starbucks brand Protein Bistro Box (see associated Enjoy by dates below) which contain the above named peanut butter product. The recalled peanut butter squeeze pack contained in the Protein Bistro Box products have Best By dates: 7/14/13, 8/10/13, 8/13/13, 8/14/13 or 8/15/13.

Peanuts associated with the Sunland, Inc. recall were used in the production of certain lots of Justin’s Nut Butter product and have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

Gretchen’s Shoebox Express is issuing this voluntary recall linked to the supplier’s recall to minimize the risk to the public health.

The recalled product was distributed solely to Starbucks retail stores in Washington and Oregon, from 9/1/2012 to 9/27/2012. All affected product has been confirmed as removed from all stores.

The Bistro Box product is in a clear plastic container, with a white code date sticker on the bottom of the container, stating “Enjoy by” followed by the date in the following format: M (Month) DD (Date), for example 9 27 standing for Sept 27th . The recalled single-serve peanut butter pouches are included inside the Bistro Box and is fully labeled and sealed. The individual pouches are date stamped at the bottom of the pouch.

Anyone who has the recalled product or the associated individual Peanut Butter pouches in their possession should not consume it and should destroy or discard the product. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 206-623-8194 Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Pacific Time).

This recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this regard. Please feel free to contact us should you require additional information or assistance.

Recalled Products and Pack Codes: