The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) issued a public health alert on March 1 regarding three types of ready-to-eat beef jerky produced and distributed by Punahele Jerky Company, Inc., of Hawaii. The alert warns consumers that the jerky may contain undeclared allergens, posing a risk to individuals with allergies to those substances.

The specific products subject to the alert include Punahele Jerky Company's Original Flavor, Teriyaki flavor, and Hot & Spicy flavor beef jerky. FSIS states that these products were distributed in Hawaii and potentially other locations. The agency’s investigation was prompted by a customer complaint that revealed the presence of an undeclared allergen. While FSIS has not recalled the products directly, the public health alert serves as a warning to consumers to avoid purchasing or consuming them.

The FSIS is urging consumers who have purchased any of the listed Punahele Jerky Company beef jerky products to discard them. Individuals with known allergies to the undeclared allergens should exercise extreme caution. FSIS will continue to investigate the matter and provide updates as they become available. Consumers with questions or concerns can contact Punahele Jerky Company, Inc. directly or the FSIS Consumer Assistance number at (800) 255-4627.

This alert highlights the importance of carefully reviewing product labels to ensure all ingredients are clearly listed, particularly for individuals with food allergies. Undeclared allergens are a leading cause of food recalls and can have serious health consequences.