USDA Issues Alert on Betterballen Foods for Undeclared Allergens

Public health officials warn against consuming specific frozen meat products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert.

Betterballen Foods Products Affected

The alert involves three frozen, not ready-to-eat products from Betterballen Foods, a U.S.-based company known for Dutch foods. The affected products include:

• Six-piece packages of Bami Rolls (pork)
• 10-piece packages of Saté Kroketten (chicken)
• 12-piece packages of Bitterballen (beef)

Products contain undeclared sesame, a recognized allergen, and the beef products also contain Worcestershire sauce with anchovy.

Identification of Products

These products were produced on October 15, 16, and 27 and have a ‘best buy’ date of October 2027. They bear the establishment numbers “EST. M3177” or “EST. P3177” inside the USDA mark of inspection. They were sold nationwide, potentially at events in South Carolina.

Public Health Concern

No recall was requested as the products are no longer available for sale. However, FSIS is concerned they may still be in homes. Individuals should dispose of or return them. No reports of adverse reactions have been confirmed, but health care providers should be contacted if there are concerns.

Understanding Sesame Allergen Regulations

Sesame became a major food allergen in the U.S. starting January 1, 2023, due to the Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research (FASTER) Act. The act mandates labeling sesame on packaged foods and supplements. It joins major allergens like milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans.