Nationwide Corn Dog Recall Follows 5 Injury Reports—Food Recall: Here’s What to Know
If you thought your freezer was a safe haven for nostalgic fair food, think again. A nationwide corn dog recall has just yanked thousands of corn dogs off shelves faster than you can say “MUUUSSTTTARRRD!” Tyson Foods, the parent company behind Jimmy Dean and State Fair brands, has issued a recall of nearly 85,000 pounds of frozen corn dogs due to—you guessed it—wood fragments found inside the batter. Yes, wood. As in splinters. As in “not part of a balanced breakfast.” Here is what you need to know about the latest food recall.
What to Check: Corn Dog Recall!
The recall affects State Fair Classic Corn Dogs and Jimmy Dean Original Pork & Chicken Sausage Corn Dogs, both sold in 26.35-ounce cartons. These were produced on April 24, 2024, and shipped nationwide to retailers. If you’ve got a box chilling in your freezer with lot codes P-8121 and a “best if used by” date of April 24, 2025, it’s time to check before you chomp.
Why the Recall?
According to the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), the recall was triggered after five people reported injuries from biting into corn dogs containing wood pieces. While no hospitalizations have been reported, the injuries were serious enough to prompt action. Tyson Foods says the issue likely stems from a manufacturing mishap, and they’re working to prevent future splinter snacks.
How Does Wood Even Get in a Corn Dog?
Let’s get nerdy for a sec. In high-speed food production, ingredients are mixed, battered, and flash-frozen in industrial machinery. If a wooden pallet, tool, or even a splinter from packaging materials gets caught in the mix, it can end up in the final product. It’s rare, but not unheard of—and it’s why quality control is a big deal in food safety. Think of it as the culinary version of a bug in your code: one tiny flaw, and suddenly your snack is a hazard, which has led to the corn dog recall.
What Should You Do?
If you’ve got one of the affected products, do not eat it—even if it looks fine. Return it to the store for a refund or toss it safely. Tyson Foods has a hotline for questions, but honestly, your best bet is to check your freezer and avoid any corn dog roulette with this food recall.
Injury Reports: Not Just a Bite-Sized Problem
The five reported injuries range from mouth lacerations to chipped teeth. While that may sound minor, it’s a big deal when you’re expecting comfort food and end up needing dental work. The FSIS classifies this as a Class I recall, meaning that this food recall has a reasonable probability that eating the product could cause serious health issues. Translation: this isn’t just a PR hiccup—it’s a full-blown food safety alert.
Final Thoughts: Snack Smart, Folks
Who doesn’t love a good corn dog? They are the unofficial mascot of state fairs, football games, and late-night freezer raids. Take heed with recall and remember that even the most beloved snacks can come with unexpected risks. Check boxes, read labels, and always be vigilant about food recalls. Convenience is important and in this day in age it is a necessity, but food awareness and safety trump all. Nothing ruins a cozy movie night faster than a splinter in your sausage.
