EDISON, NJ–Saker ShopRites, Inc., a family business that operates grocery stores in Central Jersey, has recalled nearly 20,000 pounds of pork and chicken empanadas that were “misbranded” and fail to list egg as an ingredient.

The recall was announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). 

Linden-based Saker, which was required to list the “undeclared allergen” on the product packaging, was found to be in violation during routine FSIS “label verification activities,” according to the federal agency’s February 14 statement.

There have been no reports of injuries regarding the 19,757 pounds of fully cooked pork and chicken empanadas, which were produced between October 7 to February 12 and sold at stores including the ShopRites in Edison, East Brunswick, Piscataway and North Brunswick.

The following products are subject to the recall:

  • 9-oz. vacuum-packed plastic packages containing three pieces of “3 pk CHICKEN EMPANADA wheat shell filled with seasoned chicken” with various expiration dates between Oct. 15, 2017 and Feb. 20, 2018.
  • 6-oz. vacuum-packed plastic packages containing three pieces of “2 pk CHICKEN EMPANADA wheat shell filled with seasoned chicken” with various expiration dates between Oct. 15, 2017 and Feb. 20, 2018.
  • 9-oz. vacuum-packed plastic packages containing three pieces of “3 pk PORK EMPANADA wheat shell filled with seasoned pork” with various expiration dates between Oct. 15, 2017 and Feb. 20, 2018.
  • 6-oz. vacuum-packed plastic packages containing three pieces of “2 pk PORK EMPANADA wheat shell filled with seasoned pork” with various expiration dates between Oct. 15, 2017 and Feb. 20, 2018.

The products were shipped to 30 locations in the Garden State and are labeled with “establishment number ‘EST. 5495’ or ‘EST. P-5495’ inside the USDA mark of inspection.”

Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider, warned FSIS.

Consumers are urged not to consume these products, even if they are not sensitive or allergic to eggs: “These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase,” said FSIS in a statement.

The recall affects 29 ShopRite stores in New Jersey, and the Dearborn Market in Holmdel.

Customers are being asked to return the affected products for a full refund or replacement.

Questions or concerns can be directed to 1-800-ShopRite (1-800-746-7748). 

Business Reporter at New Brunswick Today | dschatz@nb.today

Dave is an award-winning business reporter who has authored over 200 articles for New Brunswick Today.

Dave is an award-winning business reporter who has authored over 200 articles for New Brunswick Today.