Violation Sparks Urgent Action (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Cataño, Puerto Rico – Mays Chemical Company initiated a major recall of approximately 46,315 pounds of frozen raw pork boneless loins imported without undergoing required U.S. reinspection.[1][2]
Violation Sparks Urgent Action
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service discovered the issue during routine surveillance activities.[1] Officials classified the recall as a Class I import violation, signaling high potential risk to public health. The products originated from a Canadian facility marked with establishment number “Canada 12.” FSIS emphasized that such reinspections ensure imported meats meet stringent U.S. safety standards. No illnesses linked to the pork have surfaced so far.
Company representatives cooperated fully once notified. Mays Chemical acted swiftly to notify distributors and initiate the recall process. Federal inspectors now conduct effectiveness checks to verify product removal from the supply chain.[2]
Detailed Product Information
Affected items consist of variable-weight cardboard boxes holding plastic bags labeled “FROZEN PORK LOIN, BONELESS, CENTER 520MM.” Production occurred between February 27, 2025, and March 12, 2025. Each package bears the Canadian inspection mark with “Canada 12” inside it. Consumers and businesses should inspect labels closely for these identifiers.
The total volume equals roughly 23 tons, underscoring the scale of distribution efforts underway. Full details appear on the official USDA FSIS recall page.[1] Businesses that received these loins must quarantine remaining stock immediately.
Distribution Limited to Local Outlets
Shipments went exclusively to recipients within Puerto Rico, including distributors, institutions, restaurants, and federal establishments intended for further processing. No evidence suggests wider interstate movement. This containment aids faster recovery of the products.
FSIS worries persist that some portions remain in restaurant freezers or institutional storage. Routine oversight revealed the lapse, prompting the February 3, 2026, public alert. Importers must present all foreign meats for reinspection at ports of entry to prevent similar incidents.[2]
Steps for Safety and Contact
Individuals or operations holding the recalled pork should discard it or return it to the purchase point. Do not serve or consume these items, as they lack verified U.S. safety clearance. Contact a healthcare provider if illness symptoms appear after consumption.
- Verify product labels match the description above.
- Quarantine and dispose of affected items securely.
- Report concerns via the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-674-6854.
- Company contact: Julio Westerband at (787) 340-1327 or Julio.Westerband@maysochoa.com.
- Media: Dora Chevres at (787) 479-2109.
Key Takeaways
- Recall covers 46,315 pounds produced in early 2025 from Canada.
- Limited to Puerto Rico; no confirmed illnesses.
- Prioritize label checks and proper disposal.
This recall highlights the critical role of import protocols in protecting food supplies. Vigilance from importers and swift regulatory response minimized broader exposure. What steps do you take to ensure food safety in your kitchen or business? Share in the comments.
