Burnt Ridge Orchards, Inc. Recalls Shelled Hazelnuts Because of Possible Health Risks

Contacts: Carolyn or Michael Dolan – 360-985-2873

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- December 21, 2009 - Burnt Ridge Orchards, Inc., Onalaska WA is recalling 98 pounds of shelled hazelnuts because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, 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), endocarditic and arthritis.

The shelled hazelnuts that are subject to recall were sold Nov. 17th to Dec. 13th at the Olympia Farmer’s Market in Olympia, WA. They were packed in 8 oz and 16 oz zip lock plastic bags. This recall does not apply to hazelnuts sold in the shell.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

The recall was as the result of a routine sampling of product by the FDA at the company who cracks the hazelnuts for Burnt Ridge Orchards. Inc. The processing company has ceased the production and distribution of the product as FDA and the company continues their investigation as to what caused the problem.

Consumers who have purchased the shelled hazelnuts are urged to discard the product and contact Burnt Ridge Orchards, Inc. for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Burnt Ridge Orchards, Inc. at 360-985-2873, Monday – Friday, between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.