WASHINGTON – Suzanna’s Kitchen Inc. of Peachtree Corners, Georgia, recalled approximately 15,363 lbs. of grilled chicken products that contain concentrations of thallium, an unapproved substance, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the US Dept. of Agriculture reported.

Thallium is a metal found in trace amounts in the earth’s crust, but primarily is derived from smelting other metals. It is used in manufacturing electronic devices.

The affected products include 8-oz. boxed packages of “NATURE RAISED Farms organic GLUTEN FREE GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST STRIPS” with a “Use By” date of June 20, 2019 and a lot number of “1718SUZ01,” the agency said. The items bear establishment number “EST. 1381” on the side panel of the box. The grilled chicken strips were shipped to retail locations nationwide.

The Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services discovered the problem after testing retail packages of Nature Raised Farms Organic Gluten Free Grilled Chicken Strips produced by the company. FSIS noted that the concentration levels of thallium in the products are not an immediate health hazard. However, FSIS recommended the recall out of an abundance of caution because prolonged ingestion of contaminated product in individuals that are sensitive to thallium could cause some health effects.

FSIS said the agency is working with the involved parties to identify the source of the contamination and prevent any further product from going into commerce. The agency noted that there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of the chicken strips.

FSIS urged consumers not to consume the recalled chicken products. The items should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase.