Beware! USDA issues health alert against Alsi Pork carnitas for possible metal contamination risk

The U Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert regarding a pork product sold at Aldi grocery stores nationwide. The alert cautions the public against full servings of pork carnitas from Aldi nationwide containing metal particles, which could endanger consumer safety.

USDA alert for pork carnitas sold in early April

All pork carnitas produced on April 1 and April 2, 2025, are subject to the current FSIS public health alert. The affected packaging of pork carnitas was distributed in 16-ounce tray containers at Aldi grocery stores nationwide with the branding "Pork Carnitas SEASONED & SEARED PORK WITH JUICES SLOW COOKED WITH CITRUS." The packages contain "30/06/2025" and "01/07/2025" use-by dates, along with the establishment number "Est. 46049" that appears within the USDA inspection mark located on the product.


FSIS reports that the discontinued product remains at risk for consumer possession since it might still be present at consumers’ refrigerators. The agency instructs consumers to scrap matching products right away or return them to the store.

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Contamination found during equipment inspection

Cargill Meat Solutions conducted the discovery of potential contamination while serving as the Texas-based producer of pork carnitas. Regular equipment checks processed equipment problems, which could be a result of presence of metal particles that could contaminate the product. The company started the notification process with FSIS, which resulted in issuance of the health alert.

A study of injured individuals has not been confirmed yet, though FSIS advises those who suffered illness due to consumption of said pork to consult medical professionals. The health strategy declined to order a recall since the product is not available for public purchase anymore.

Consumers urged to take caution with affected packages

Customers need to check pork carnitas packaging if they bought packets from Aldi stores during early April. All consumers should avoid eating products that match FSIS alert specifications regarding description and date information. The product has two disposal options, which allow consumers to either eliminate it properly or return it to the selling location.

The Food Safety and Inspection Service operates the Meat and Poultry Hotline for food safety inquiries at 888-674-6854. Consumers have two options for contacting FSIS: via email at MPHotline@usda.gov or by using the 24/7 Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System through an online platform.

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FSIS highlights consumer safety amid growing concerns

The FSIS continues its efforts to protect consumer safety and stop any possible harmful situations despite the currently low contamination threat levels. Fast agency action alongside public warnings composes a major initiative to ensure security within the food supply chain. All consumers possessing pork carnitas products need to check the product list for the affected items and then act accordingly.

FAQs:

Q1: What should I do if I have the affected pork carnitas?
Do not consume it. Either discard the product or return it to the store where it was purchased.

Q2: How can I identify the recalled pork carnitas?
Look for 16-ounce packages labeled “Pork Carnitas SEASONED & SEARED PORK WITH JUICES SLOW COOKED WITH CITRUS” with use-by dates of 30/06/2025 or 01/07/2025 and the establishment number “Est. 46049.”