O.C. Firm's Cacao Snacks Recalled for E. Coli

A San Clemente-based company is recalling packages of organic cacao nib snack food because of possible bacterial contamination, the firm announced Sunday.

The World Berries brand snack food may be contaminated with a virulent form of e. coli bacteria called O157:H7, which has been known to cause hemolytic uremic syndrome in a small percentage of people. For the vast majority, the bacteria causes a virulent form of diarrhea.

The cacao nibs were sold in 6-ounce packages. About 500 packages were distributed, and 263 of those have already been pulled from shelves for destruction. The packages were distributed April 12-17 to retail stores in California and 29 other states.

The product is sold under a World Berries brand name, with UPC code 632474929022, affected lot code 161104 and a use-by date of 04/14.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this product.

The company, San Clemente-based FunFresh Foods, said its own testing indicated the potential for contamination. No other lots of this product and no other FunFresh products are affected by this recall.

Consumers can call 800-232-8619 for information.

-- City News Service