Camilla Jessen
Here’s what to know and what to do if you’ve purchased them.
More than 18,000 pounds of ready-to-eat sausage, sliced meat, and poultry products are being recalled after being found to contain excessive levels of sodium nitrite, according to a statement from Smith Packing, LLC.
The company initiated the recall following consumer complaints about the taste and color of the products.
No illnesses have been reported to date, but sodium nitrite in high concentrations can pose serious health risks, including nausea, dizziness, and in extreme cases, hospitalization or death.
Affected Products and Timeline
The impacted meat products were produced between February 19 and April 24, 2025, and distributed to retailers, restaurants, and institutions throughout New York.
They carry sell-by dates of April 28 or June 12, 2025.
A complete list of affected products is available via the USDA or the official Smith Packing website.
Sodium nitrite is a common preservative used in processed meats to prevent bacterial growth and maintain color. However, consuming too much in a single meal can lead to methemoglobinemia, a potentially dangerous condition that limits the blood’s ability to carry oxygen.
Though no health incidents have been linked to this recall, anyone experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, headache, or dizziness after consumption should seek medical advice immediately.
What to Do If You Purchased the Product
- Do not consume the recalled items.
- Return them to the place of purchase or safely dispose of them.
- Restaurants and food service operators should stop using the products immediately and follow disposal or return procedures.
For questions, consumers can contact Smith Packing directly or check recall alerts from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).