A massive Slim-Fast recall has been announced for all 10 million ready-to-drink cans of the diet product
The massive Slim-Fast recall affects only cans of the the Slim-Fast ready-to-drink products. The Slim-Fast powdered version and the snack bars are believed to be just fine.
Most of the ready-to-drink cans in question are packaged in cartons that contain four, six or 12 cans. Single-sale cans are also sold in certain retail outlets.
The Unilever spokeswoman said buyers of the product should discard them and contact the company for a full refund. The Slim-Fast site says:
“The recall involves all Slim-Fast RTD products in cans, regardless of flavor, Best-By date, lot code or UPC number.”
Although the manufacturer claims that no illnesses or deaths have been officially reported in connection with the recall, MSNBC.com reports that a number of people have become sick from Slim Fast drinks, with illness surfacing about 6 to 15 hours after the shake was consumed. The report indicates that the individuals recovered within about 24 hours.
The Slim-Fast ready-to-drink cans are flavored meal replacement drinks used for weight loss. The recall includes all Slim-Fast cans of all flavors, sold both in four-can cartons and individually. It affects cans currently in stores and includes all cans which may be in homes that have not yet been consumed. There are an estimated 10 million of the 11-ounce, steel cans on the market.
Bacillus cereus is responsible for about two percent of all foodborne illness, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Illness comes within 24 hours after exposure and can result in a diarrheal illness. Serious illness and permanent injury are very rare.
Unilever has ceased production of Slim-Fast ready-to-drink cans until the source of the contamination can be identified and corrected, company officials say.
