Media Release

Date: November 17, 2005
Contact : Robert Marshall, PhD RI Department of Health 401-222-1017

Harry & David Recalls Black and Kalamata Olive Tapenade
Possible Contamination Due to Flawed Processing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – The Rhode Island Department of Health advises consumers that the Harry & David Operations Corp., of Medford, Oregon, is recalling 200 jars of Black and Kalamata Olive Tapenade. This product, a typical Mediterranean dip made mostly of olives and olive oil, may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a toxin-producing bacterium that can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled. The Tapenade was sold at Harry and David retail stores throughout the country. While there are no Harry and David Stores in Rhode Island, consumers may have purchased or received this product from stores located in neighboring states, such as Massachusetts or Connecticut.

Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

The Black and Kalamata Olive Tapenade was distributed throughout the United States at Harry and David retail stores in 11 oz. glass jars. The lot code recalled is 23405-941H2. The lot code is ink jetted with black ink on the shoulder of the glass jar. The item number is located on an adhesive label on the bottom of the jar. The adhesive label states:

"Harry and David 888905 Tapenade Olive"

The date of distribution to the Harry and David retail store locations ranges from September 16 through September 26, 2005. No resulting illnesses have been reported in RI or elsewhere.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product may have undergone inadequate processing. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the co-packer's production and packaging. The product was produced by a co-packer, WDSR Foods, LLC, (“Hagerty Foods”), now owned by Enterprise Custom Foods, Inc., Orange, CA, for Harry and David.

Consumers who have the Black and Kalamata Olive Tapenade product should discard the product or return the product to the place of purchase for a refund. Consumers with questions may also contact the company at 1-800-345-5655.