A voluntary recall of a food additive has food processors scrambling to check their inventory. Salmonella was found in a manufacturing plant in Las Vegas that produces Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein. Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein is used in a large variety of processed food. One manufacturer of potato salad has already pulled their product fro m Safeway and Wal Mart. This food additive can be found in thousands of food products.

The FDA has stated that it was able to acquire the genetic make up of this strain of salmonella and that there have been no related illnesses connected to it, so far. Because this additive is used in such a large variety of process foods, the FDA pushed for a voluntary recall prior to an outbreak of sickness. Salmonella causes sever gastro-intestinal distress. Nausea, vomiting, fever and severe abdominal pain are all associated with the illness. Most people can recover with out major treatment, but young children and the elderly may become sicker than a healthy adult.

FDA inspectors found traces of the salmonella on the equipment of the manufacturer and has requested a recall of all products made since September 2009. This product comes in the form of powder or paste and is distributed nation wide. To check if any products you use are on the recall list you can check the FDA website at www.foodsafety.gov.