The number of foods being recalled due to contaminated hydrolyzed vegetable protein paste or HVP has increased dramatically. The FDA first issued the recall in a joint effort with Canadian officials after salmonella bacteria was discovered in a Las Vegas plant upon inspection.

HPV is used to flavor ready-to-eat foods like canned soups, vegetables, dressings and thousands of other products. Basic Foods Inc is the only plant that has been linked to this bacteria contamination at this point. However, they supply a number of different brands including large grocery store chains like Wal-Mart and Safeway. Canadian officials have linked eight brand names to the Basic Foods Inc thus far.

The products that are contaminated with the deadly salmonella bacteria date back to September of 2009. The company discovered the salmonella on January 21st but continued to distribute the toxic goods through February.

There have been no reported illnesses as of yet but consumers are advised to throw away the products immediately. Young children, elderly and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to this particular bacteria. The danger is increased because the foods involved with this recall are ready-to-eat meaning, there is no cooking involved. High heat will usually kill the bacteria.