(TODAY)– Kellogg Company announced Thursday it is voluntarily recalling specific packages of Honey Smacks cereal because some boxes might be contaminated with salmonella. The recall is based on preliminary evidence linking the cereal to more than 73 illnesses in 31 states, including Kentucky.
Other Kellogg products are not part of the recall.
Kellogg launched an investigation with the third-party manufacturer that produces Honey Smacks after the Food & Drug Administration, as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, contacted the company about reported illnesses. The CDC and the cereal company are working to remove the boxes quickly from stores.
OUTBREAK: An outbreak of 73 Salmonella infections from 31 states has been linked to Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal. Do not eat recalled cereal. Throw it away or return it to the place of purchase. https://t.co/G5WyEiWp5A pic.twitter.com/YjqMTJbQYx
— CDC (@CDCgov) June 15, 2018
The Honey Smacks boxes affected come in both 15.3- and 23-ounce packages, have "Best If Used By Dates" between June 14, 2018, and June 14, 2019, and have UPC codes 3800039103 and 3800014810. (The UPC code is the number found just below the barcode on the bottom of the box.)
People infected with salmonella can experience severe illness, though symptoms may vary. Symptoms, which can appear 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food, include diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever, according to the CDC.
Kellogg said those who purchased the affected Honey Smacks boxes can throw them away and contact the company for a full refund.
Don’t eat the cereal, the CDC warned. If the cereal has been stored in a different container and the brand or type is unknown, throw the product away and thoroughly wash the container with warm, soapy water before using it again to prevent further contamination.
Consumers with questions or concerns can call 1-800-962-1413 or visit kelloggs.com/honeysmacksrecall.
