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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Spices recalled after salmonella outbreak

Staff and wire reports
Public health officials are widening a recall of spices produced by a California company associated with a salmonella outbreak that has sickened 42 people in four states, including Washington. Union International Food Company has initiated a voluntary recall of its retail pepper products as well as other spice products repackaged in its Union City, Calif., facility. Spices recalled include white and black pepper sold under the Uncle Chen label and, under the Lian How brand name, pepper, paprika, curry, onion powder and other products. The California health department says most of the people sickened in that state appeared to have been exposed to salmonella while eating at Asian restaurants that used the company’s spices. Salmonella poisoning causes diarrhea and vomiting. It can be fatal in children and others with weakened immune systems. Officials say the salmonella outbreak has sickened nine people in Washington, Oregon and Nevada, and 33 people throughout northern and central California. No deaths have been reported. For updated information or questions about the ongoing investigation, contact the Union International Food Company information line at (510) 471-6799 or www.ufunionfood.com.