Wood Found in Chicken Corn Dogs Prompts Massive Recall

Major Poultry Producer Issues Recall for Chicken Corn Dogs

A significant food safety alert has been issued after a major poultry producer announced a massive recall affecting millions of pounds of its products. The action was initiated after the company discovered the presence of extraneous materials, specifically pieces of wood, within the batter of its chicken corn dogs.

Scale and Scope of the Recall

The recall encompasses a staggering quantity of product, totaling just under four million pounds. These items were distributed nationwide to various retail locations, indicating a potentially broad consumer reach. The affected products are part of a specific production run, and consumers are urged to check packaging details carefully.

Identifying the Recalled Products

The products in question are fully cooked, frozen chicken corn dogs. Consumers can identify the recalled items by looking for specific lot codes and "Use By" dates printed on the packaging. Authorities advise that anyone in possession of these products should not consume them and should either dispose of the items immediately or return them to the point of purchase for a full refund.

Discovery and Consumer Safety

The issue was identified following internal quality control checks and subsequent consumer complaints. The presence of wood fragments poses a serious choking hazard and risk of injury. To date, there have been a limited number of minor oral injuries reported in connection with the issue, though no major health crises have been confirmed.

Official Response and Investigation

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has been actively involved, classifying the recall as a "Class I" event. This designation is the most serious level, reserved for situations where there is a reasonable probability that consuming the product will cause severe health consequences or death. The company is cooperating fully with the investigation, which is ongoing to determine the root cause of the contamination.

What Consumers Should Do

Individuals who have purchased these chicken corn dogs are strongly advised to check their freezers. If the product matches the recalled lots, it should be thrown away or returned. Consumers with questions can contact the company directly through its customer service hotline. The FSIS also recommends that people report any adverse reactions to their healthcare provider.

What do you think?

• Does a recall of this magnitude shake your trust in the safety of mass-produced frozen foods, or do you see it as proof that the safety system is working?


• Given the high number of minor injuries already reported, should the penalties for such contamination events be more severe to force higher safety standards?


• How often do you actually check product lot numbers and recall notices for the food already in your kitchen?


• Is it the responsibility of the consumer to stay informed about recalls, or should companies and retailers do more to directly contact buyers?