USDA Recalls 167,639 Pounds of Meat Products

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a recall of approximately 167,639 pounds of raw pork, beef, and goat products from Star Meat Delivery Inc. due to serious health risks associated with uninspected meat.

Why it matters: This recall is classified as Class I, the USDA's most severe category, indicating a reasonable probability of serious health consequences from consuming the affected products.

• The recalled products include ground pork, beef ribs, goat cuts, and chorizo under the A&D Foods label.
• Consumers are advised to discard or return any of the affected products to the place of purchase.
• No illnesses have been reported in connection to these products as of the announcement date.

Driving the news: The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall on September 22, 2026, after discovering that the products were produced without federal inspection.

• The products were labeled with a false USDA inspection mark, reading "EST. 1363," which does not correspond to a federally inspected facility.
• The recall affects products shipped to A&D Foods in Georgia for distribution to retail stores and restaurants across the nation.
• The issue was identified during routine surveillance activities by the FSIS.

Key facts

• 167,639 pounds of meat products recalled.
• All products bear the false establishment number "EST. 1363."
• No confirmed reports of illness related to these products.

State of play: The USDA emphasizes that food produced without inspection may contain undeclared allergens, harmful bacteria, or other contaminants that pose a risk to consumer health.

• Consumers are urged to check their freezers for any of the recalled items.
• Retailers and restaurants are advised not to sell or serve the affected products.
• The FSIS may update the list of recalled items as more information becomes available.

The big picture: This recall shows the value of federal inspection in ensuring food safety and protecting public health.

• Uninspected meat products can lead to severe health risks, including foodborne illnesses.
• The USDA's proactive measures aim to prevent unsafe food from reaching consumers.
• Consumers are reminded to remain vigilant about food safety practices in their homes.

What they're saying: The USDA's FSIS issued a warning about the potential dangers of consuming the recalled products.

• “Food produced without inspection may contain undeclared allergens, harmful bacteria, or other contaminants that put consumer health and safety at risk,” the USDA stated.
• Consumers who have purchased any recalled products are encouraged to monitor their health and consult a healthcare provider if they feel unwell.

By the numbers: The recall encompasses a wide variety of products, including:

• Various-weight cardboard boxes containing individually vacuum-packed A&D Foods “GOAT CUT 1-1/2" 10.00 LBS.”
• Ground pork, beef ribs, chorizo, and menudo mix, among others.
• Products may have been repackaged by retailers, complicating identification.

Between the lines: The lack of proper inspection raises concerns about the broader implications for food safety regulations.

• Misbranding and distribution of uninspected products could undermine consumer trust in food safety systems.
• The USDA's findings stress the need for stringent enforcement of food safety standards.

What's next: Consumers are encouraged to act quickly to dispose of or return the recalled products.

• For questions, individuals can contact Jennifer Joyner, media office manager of Star Meat Delivery, Inc., at 252-239-0610.
• The USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline is available at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) for food safety inquiries.
• Consumers should monitor updates from the USDA as the agency continues to investigate and review the situation.

As of now, no illnesses have been linked to these products, but vigilance is key in ensuring food safety.