Urgent recall for more than 12,000 pounds of a breakfast staple that could cause serious health problems or death
Americans are being urged to check their refrigerators and freezers after more than 12,000 pounds of bacon were recalled over fears that the products bypassed a key federal food safety inspection.
The smoked slices, produced by Maple Leaf Foods and sold in three states, were brought into the US from Canada without undergoing the required import procedures, according to officials.
Although no illnesses or injuries have been reported, consumers have been warned not to eat the affected products because meat imported without the mandatory inspection process may pose a potential health risk.
The recalled bacon was produced in June and distributed to Grocery Outlet stores and retailers in Idaho, Oregon and Washington, according to the Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
Two products are affected, including a 12-ounce vacuum package of Royale Natural Applewood Smoked All Natural Uncured Bacon, Product of Canada, with sell-by dates of September 1, 2026, and September 7, 2026.
The second is a 12-ounce vacuum package of Top Valu Uncured Hardwood Smoked Bacon, Product of Canada, with sell-by dates of September 1, 2, 4, 5 and 7, 2026.
The recalled products, which total around 12,036 pounds, bear the Canadian establishment number ‘EST. 1’ printed on the side of the package, while master case boxes carry the health certificate 2026-S732971612.
Two products are affected by the recall, including a 12-ounce vacuum package of Royale Natural Applewood Smoked All Natural Uncured Bacon, Product of Canada, with sell-by dates of September 1, 2026, and September 7, 2026
The problem was uncovered during routine inspection activities, the FSIS said.
Imported meat products must undergo a mandatory check by the federal agency after clearing customs.
The process verifies documentation, labeling, packaging and the condition of the products, and may also include sampling for contaminants before products can legally be sold in the United States.
Officials said the bacon entered the country without receiving the required inspection.
The agency said anyone concerned about illness or injury should contact a healthcare provider.
Customers who purchased the products are being urged not to consume them.
Instead, they should either throw the bacon away or return it to the store where it was purchased for a refund.
The second recalled product is a 12-ounce vacuum package of Top Valu Uncured Hardwood Smoked Bacon, Product of Canada, with sell-by dates of September 1, 2, 4, 5 and 7, 2026
The bacon recall is the latest in a growing series of meat and poultry alerts issued across America this year (stock image)
The agency said it will continue carrying out recall effectiveness checks to ensure the products are removed from store shelves and that distributors have been properly notified.
Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Maple Leaf Foods vice president of communications, Adam Emery, at 416-518-5131 or by email at adam.emery@mapleleaf.com.
Anyone with food safety questions can also contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854.
The bacon recall is the latest in a growing series of meat and poultry alerts issued across America this year.
Federal food safety officials have repeatedly warned consumers to check their refrigerators and freezers after products ranging from ready-to-eat meats to sausages and beef were recalled over contamination fears, undeclared allergens and the potential presence of foreign objects.
