USDA Urges To Cook Frozen, Stuffed Raw Chicken Products After 32 Illnesses

Washington, D.C. (AHN) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service has issued a public health alert due to recent 32 salmonellosis poisoning cases in 12 states.

The department said illness caused by Salmonella may be associated with raw, frozen, breaded and pre-browned, stuffed chicken entrees.

The authorities have urged people nationwide to follow cooking instructions on the uncooked-chicken product packages as individuals who became ill did not follow the cooking instructions and reportedly used a microwave to prepare the product.

"FSIS is reminding consumers of the critical importance of following package cooking instructions for frozen, stuffed raw chicken products and general food safety guidelines when handling and preparing any raw meat or poultry," Food Safety and Inspection Service said in a statement issued on Friday.

The Department added, "It is especially important to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of these chicken products such that all points of measurement are at least 165° F."

The investigation by Minnesota Department of Health and Minnesota Department of Agriculture led the government determine the association between products such as chicken cordon blue and chicken breast kiev and the illnesses.

The Minnesota Department of Health have confirmed that 14 cases of salmonellosis have been reported in Minnesota since July and all the cases have been linked to raw frozen chicken entrees.

According to reports, the latest incident is sixth outbreak of salmonellosis in Minnesota linked to these types of products since 1998.

"Frozen, raw, breaded and pre-browned stuffed chicken products covered by this alert and similar products, may be stuffed or filled, breaded or browned and therefore appear to be cooked," FSIS said.

These products include chicken cordon bleu, chicken kiev and chicken breast stuffed with cheese, vegetables or other items.

Salmonella infections is considered as life-threatening, especially to those with weak immune systems, such as infants, the elderly and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy.

The department lists some of the most common symptoms of salmonellosis that can occur within eight to 72 hours: diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. Additional symptoms may be chills, headache, nausea and vomiting that can last up to seven days.