UNIVERSITY PARK - The University Creamery at Penn State on Thursday voluntarily recalled all ice cream and frozen yogurt made between May 16 and Aug. 11 because of isolated incidents involving reports of small plastic foreign objects in the product.
The Creamery said it is erring on the side of caution and safety for the consuming public.
The recalled ice cream was manufactured and sold from the Berkey Creamery on the University Park campus and also was available for purchase on the Internet from the Creamery's website.
An independent investigation of the reports of foreign objects conducted for the Creamery, while not conclusive, suggests that the objects did not enter the ice cream during the manufacturing process.
"The safety of the public is our No. 1 concern," said Tom Palchak, Creamery manager. "Although by all accounts these appear to be isolated incidents, they are troubling to say the least. We have a longstanding reputation for safety at the Creamery and a product that consumers trust. We are erring on the side of caution with this recall and in taking the actions, we are taking to prevent any recurrence."
In mid-August, Penn State police began a criminal investigation into several isolated incidents involving reports of small foreign objects in Creamery ice cream. The Creamery has received three reports of consumers finding small plastic pieces in the ice cream, specifically, three small pieces of plastic less than 21 mm, or about 0.82 inches, in size.
While the reports have only related to half gallon containers, the Creamery is extending the recall to cover all ice cream and frozen yogurt in all container sizes made May 16 and Aug. 11. Ice cream subject to the recall will bear a BEST IF USED BY date on the label falling on or between Feb. 10, 2013, and Aug. 11, 2013.
Consumers who have purchased ice cream covered by this recall are urged to not eat the ice cream and to return any product subject to the recall to the place of purchase for a full refund or exchange. Consumers with questions may contact the Creamery at 855-677-0464.
No illnesses or injuries have been reported, the Creamery said. Anyone that believes they may have ingested an object should immediately consult a health care professional.
The recall is being conducted with the full knowledge of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, the Creamery said.
