USDA Issues Class I Meat Recall: 167,639 Pounds Bypass Federal Inspection

Star Meat Delivery Inc. recalled approximately 167,639 pounds of raw pork, beef, and goat products on September 22 after the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service discovered they were produced without federal inspection yet bore false USDA inspection marks. The U.S. Department of Agriculture classified the recall as Class I, its highest risk level, because uninspected meat may contain undeclared allergens, harmful bacteria, or other contaminants. The products were distributed nationwide through A&D Foods, a Georgia distributor, to retailers and restaurants. No illnesses have been reported.

How the violation was discovered

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) discovered the issue during routine surveillance activities. The products bore a false establishment number, “EST. 1363,” which the FSIS confirmed does not have a federal grant of inspection. Star Meat Delivery Inc. shipped the products in bulk to A&D Foods in Georgia for further distribution to retail and restaurant locations nationwide.

What products are affected

The recalled items include goat cuts, beef ribeye slices, beef chuck, beef oxtail, beef short ribs, pork ground, and pork chorizo, all distributed under the A&D Foods label. The products were vacuum-sealed and packed in cardboard boxes before shipment, though individual retail packages may bear store-applied price stickers and safe-handling labels instead of the original bulk labeling. Consumers should check for the false establishment number “EST. 1363” on packaging.

Why uninspected meat poses a food safety risk

Federal inspection ensures meat is “safe, wholesome and properly labeled,” according to the FSIS. Food produced without inspection may contain undeclared allergens, harmful bacteria or other contaminants. The FSIS warned that some products may still be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers. As of September 23, no confirmed illnesses or injuries linked to the recalled meat have been reported.

What consumers should do

Consumers who purchased meat bearing the false establishment number “EST. 1363” should not consume it and should discard it or return it to the retailer. The USDA’s FSIS website maintains an updated list of recalled products and labels. Anyone concerned about illness or injury should contact a health care provider. Customers with questions can email Star Meat Delivery at [email protected].

Final Thoughts

This Class I recall underscores the critical role federal inspection plays in food safety. Canadian consumers should verify any imported or bulk meat purchases against the USDA recall list to avoid potential contamination.

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