Expansion Follows Initial Consumer Complaints (Image Credits: Foodsafetynews.com)
Ajinomoto Foods North America Inc. expanded a previous recall to encompass almost 37 million pounds of various frozen rice and dumpling products potentially tainted with glass shards.[1][2]
Expansion Follows Initial Consumer Complaints
The company first initiated a recall on February 19, 2026, after receiving four complaints about glass in its products. That action covered about 3.37 million pounds, primarily Trader Joe’s chicken fried rice shipped nationwide and one Ajinomoto item sent to Canada.[2]
Officials traced the issue to a vegetable ingredient, likely carrots, used across multiple production lines. Ajinomoto, based in Portland, Oregon, broadened the recall on March 3 to include ready-to-eat and not-ready-to-eat items produced from October 21, 2024, through February 26, 2026.[1] The total now stands at 36,987,575 pounds, marking one of the largest food recalls in recent memory.
Widespread Brands and Products Affected
Several well-known brands faced disruptions as the recall swept through retail freezers. Consumers might find these items bearing establishment numbers P-18356, P-18356B, or P-47971 inside the USDA mark of inspection.
- Ajinomoto: Various fried rice, ramen, and yakitori chicken products.
- Kroger: Chicken and pork fried rice selections.
- Ling Ling: Potstickers and similar dumplings.
- Tai Pei: Frozen rice entrees with chicken.
- Trader Joe’s: Chicken fried rice in 20-oz. bags, best by dates from September 8, 2026, to November 17, 2026.
Best-by dates on the expanded products range from February 28, 2026, to August 19, 2027. Distribution reached retailers across the United States, with some Ajinomoto items also exported to Canada and Mexico.[1]
Source of Contamination and Health Risks
Multiple consumer reports prompted the investigation, though no confirmed injuries emerged from ingesting the products. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service emphasized the hazard posed by sharp glass fragments.[2]
FSIS urged vigilance, noting that some recalled items could linger in home freezers or store shelves. The agency classified the initial recall as high-risk, prompting swift action to prevent potential cuts or more serious harm.
Production spanned over a year, complicating the scope as shared ingredients linked diverse items. Ajinomoto cooperated fully, notifying FSIS promptly after the first alerts.
What Consumers Need to Know
Anyone with these products should discard them immediately or return them to the purchase point. Check packaging for the specified establishment numbers and date ranges to confirm involvement.
For full product lists and labels, visit the USDA FSIS recall page.[2] Contact Ajinomoto at MediaInquiry@ajinomotofoods.com or (909) 477-4800 for questions.
Key Takeaways:
- Nearly 37 million pounds affected, spanning five major brands.
- Glass likely from carrots; no injuries reported yet.
- Check freezers now – best-by dates extend into 2027.
This recall underscores the challenges of supply chain oversight in frozen foods. Vigilant consumers and rapid regulatory response helped contain risks before widespread harm occurred. What steps will you take to check your freezer? Share in the comments below.
