Ginos, Totino’s Frozen Pizza Faces E-Coli Recall

HARTFORD — In light of the November 2 General Mills recall of millions of packages of Totino’s and Jeno’s frozen pizzas for possible contamination with E. coli 0157:H7, Department of Consumer Protection food inspectors have been checking stores statewide to ensure that all of the recalled products are removed from sale, according to Consumer Protection Commissioner Jerry Farrell, Jr.

The commissioner urges consumers to check their freezers for these products as well and discard or return them for a full refund.

“This is a large recall of two major frozen pizza brands that are widely sold across the state,” Mr Farrell said. “We’re working with all stores to remove these products to prevent possible illness, and I strongly encourage consumers to do the same in their own homes.”

The following products are recalled:

*10.2-ounce packages of “Totino’s The Original Crisp Crust Party Pizza Pepperoni.”

*10.2-ounce packages of “Totino’s The Original Crisp Crust Party Pizza, Classic Pepperoni.”

*10.2-ounce packages of “Totino’s The Original Crisp Crust Party Pizza, Pepperoni Trio.”

*10.7-ounce packages of “Totino’s The Original Crisp Crust Party Pizza, Combination Sausage & Pepperoni Pizza.”

*10.5-ounce packages of “Totino’s The Original Crisp Crust Party Pizza, Three Meat Sausage, Canadian Style Bacon & Pepperoni Pizza.”

*10.9-ounce packages of “Totino’s The Original Crisp Crust Party Pizza, Supreme Sausage & Pepperoni Pizza with Green Peppers & Onions.”

*6.8-ounce packages of “Jeno’s Crisp ‘N Tasty Pizza, Pepperoni.”

*7.0-ounce packages of “Jeno’s Crisp ’N Tasty Pizza, Combination Sausage & Pepperoni Pizza.”

*7.2-ounce packages of “Jeno’s Crisp ’N Tasty Pizza, Supreme Sausage & Pepperoni With Green Peppers & Onion Pizza.”

Each package also bears the number “EST. 7750” inside the USDA mark of inspection, as well as a “best if used by” date on or before “02 APR 08 WS.”

Thus far, 21 persons in ten states, including two in New York, have contracted E. coli, possibly in relation to consuming these products. All patients have recovered. No one in Connecticut has reportedly been affected to date.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea and dehydration. The very young, seniors, and persons with compromised immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. Persons who are concerned about possible E. coli symptoms should contact a physician.

Consumers with questions about the recall should contact the General Mills Consumer Hotline at 800-949-9055.

Consumers with food safety questions can “Ask Karen,” the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from 10 am to 4 pm (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.