On March 2, Trader Joe's withdrew its Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings due to suspected plastic contamination, disappointing fans.
Customers were briefly informed that the item has a best-by date of March 7, 2025, and lot code C1-1 or C1-2.FSIS, the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service, verified the nationwide recall with more details.
The dumpling maker, CJ Foods Manufacturing Beaumont Corporation, recalled 61,839 pounds due to permanent marker pen plastic contamination.
The recall covers all 6-ounce boxes made on December 7, 2023, with the USDA mark of inspection P-46009.
The FSIS discovered the plastic after customers reported it in their dumplings. There have been no injuries or adverse reactions, but consumers are advised to check their freezers for the product and return it to Trader Joe's for a refund or throw it away.
Unfortunately, grocery recalls are common. Most customers no longer care about news notifications about returning or discarding products due to E. Coli or salmonella.
Trader Joe's Chicken, Lentil & Caramelized Onion Pilaf, Multigrain Crackers with Sunflower and Flax Seeds, and Instant Cold Brew Coffee were recalled last year owing to pebbles, metal, and glass shards.
One angry consumer asked on Reddit, "Rocks, glass, now permanent marker plastic? Did they dispose of all quality control measures?" Others were astonished by plastic pens.
"At the facilities I have worked at we had to use metal-detectable pens and markers for this reason and all product went through metal detectors," another said.
Fortunately, Trader Joe's isn't the only dumpling supplier. Costco's soup dumplings are praised for their superior taste, greater size, and flavorful sauce.