Alert for Frozen Taquito Consumers: Major Recall Due to Contamination

Jan 13, 2025 at 8:08 PM

Aldi has issued a significant recall of frozen chicken and cheese taquitos due to potential contamination with metal fragments. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall, which affects nearly 25,000 pounds of product. This precautionary measure is in response to consumer complaints and reports of injuries. Although no widespread health issues have been reported, consumers are advised to take immediate action if they have purchased these products.

Potential Health Risks and Product Details

The recalled taquitos pose a serious risk to consumers due to the presence of metal contaminants. These items were distributed to select Aldi stores across 30 states and the District of Columbia. Affected packages include 20-ounce cartons labeled as "CASA MAMITA CHICKEN & CHEESE TAQUITOS," with best-by dates ranging from July 3, 2025, to September 25, 2025. The establishment number "EST. P-40327" can be found on the packaging.

The issue was brought to light after a consumer discovered a piece of metal within the product and reported it to FSIS. Another individual claimed to have suffered a dental injury from consuming the contaminated taquitos. Despite these incidents, there have been no further reports of injuries or illnesses linked to this batch. However, FSIS urges anyone who feels unwell or injured to consult their healthcare provider. It is crucial for consumers to discard or return the affected products immediately to ensure safety.

Consumer Actions and Affected Locations

Consumers who have purchased the recalled taquitos should avoid consuming them and instead dispose of or return the products to the point of purchase. The recall covers specific Aldi locations in various regions, emphasizing the need for vigilance when checking food labels. The involved states span from Alabama to Wisconsin, including major metropolitan areas and rural communities.

To provide clarity, the following states are included in the recall: Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Washington, D.C., Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, North Dakota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. Customers seeking more information or refunds can contact Bestway Foods for assistance. For broader food safety inquiries, the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline is available to offer guidance.