Costco has removed two of its ready-to-eat products from shelves after fragments of plastic were discovered in their dressing, prompting a safety alert to customers earlier this month.
How the issue was discovered
According to a notice posted on Costco’s website, the retailer initiated the withdrawal after learning that Ventura Foods — the California-based supplier responsible for the dressing used in both items — identified possible contamination during production.
The precautionary recall affects:
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Caesar Salad containers marked with Lot 19927
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Chicken sandwiches labeled with Lot 11444
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Packages with sell-by dates spanning mid-October through early November
The products were sold in several regions, including the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast.
Costco urged customers who purchased the affected items to dispose of them immediately. “Please stop eating the product and return the item to your local Costco for a full refund,” the company said.
Why plastic contamination is a concern
Finding foreign materials like plastic in prepared foods raises immediate safety hazards. Larger fragments can lead to choking or internal injury if swallowed. The incident also underscores a broader, long-term issue involving the presence of plastics throughout the food supply chain.
While scientists continue studying how microplastics affect human health, early findings suggest potential risks when such particles accumulate in the body. Although the Costco incident involves larger, visible pieces, it highlights the vulnerabilities created by heavy reliance on plastic in food production and packaging.
Industry implications and consumer action
Food safety experts say stronger oversight of manufacturing processes could help prevent similar incidents. Advocates have also called for tighter regulations that limit the use of plastic in processing environments and improve detection systems.
Consumers affected by the withdrawal can seek refunds by visiting their local Costco or checking the company’s customer service website for additional guidance.
Food safety groups also recommend reducing reliance on prepackaged meals when possible. Preparing food at home from fresh ingredients can reduce exposure to packaging-related contaminants and provide more control over what ends up on the plate.
