MegaMex Foods has recalled over 500 cases of La Victoria Cilantro Salsa after wood fragments were discovered in the product, potentially endangering consumers across five states with an unexpected choking hazard hidden in this popular condiment.
Key Takeaways
- MegaMex Foods is recalling 501 cases of La Victoria Cilantro Salsa Medium with a December 2026 expiration date due to wood fragment contamination.
- The recalled salsa was distributed to California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Michigan, affecting nine different consignees.
- The contamination originated from the fresh cilantro ingredient used in the salsa’s production.
- No illnesses or injuries have been reported yet, but consumers should check their pantries for the affected product (UPC# 0 72101 34470 3).
- This recall follows an earlier public health alert from the FSIS regarding other cilantro-containing products with similar contamination issues.
Widespread Distribution Raises Contamination Concerns
On April 14, 2025, MegaMex Foods, LLC initiated a voluntary recall of 501 cases of its La Victoria Cilantro Salsa, Medium version, after discovering potential contamination with wood fragments. The affected product, identified by UPC# 0 72101 34470 3 with a “Best By” date of December 2026, was distributed to nine consignees across five states: California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Michigan. This significant distribution range has raised concerns that many consumers may still have the potentially dangerous product in their homes, unaware of the hazard lurking in their pantry.
Part of a Larger Contamination Issue
The La Victoria salsa recall appears to be part of a broader contamination problem with cilantro. Just days before, on April 11, 2025, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) issued a public health alert regarding soup and bowl products that may contain the same contaminated cilantro with wood fragments. Those products were distributed throughout Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio, suggesting the scope of the cilantro contamination may be more extensive than initially reported. The contamination likely occurred during harvest, processing, or packaging of the cilantro before it reached food manufacturers.
The potential health risks from consuming these wood-contaminated products are concerning for all consumers but particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations. Young children, older adults, and individuals with gastrointestinal conditions face elevated risks from ingesting these foreign materials. Wood fragments can cause choking, mouth injuries, internal damage, and other serious health complications that could require medical intervention. The fact that such a basic ingredient in so many food products could pose this level of risk raises legitimate questions about our food safety systems.
“Food safety isn’t just ticking boxes—it’s about keeping consumers safe and showing they can trust what’s on their plate. People expect products that are not only delicious but also safe, and as an industry, it’s on us to meet that standard. Whether it’s a stray wood chip or a labeling slip-up, fast, honest action matters. Owning the issue and putting real solutions in place is how we protect public health and keep confidence in our food systems strong,” said Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.
Consumer Actions and Company Response
While MegaMex Foods reports that no illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported to date, the company is urging consumers to take immediate action if they have purchased the affected product. Anyone who has this salsa should either return it to the place of purchase for a refund or discard it immediately. The FDA has expressed concern that many consumers may still have the contaminated product in their possession, especially given its December 2026 expiration date, which would typically indicate a long shelf-life for the product.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about food safety oversight and ingredient traceability in the American food supply. While MegaMex Foods has taken the responsible step of initiating a voluntary recall, questions remain about how wood fragments made their way into the cilantro supply in the first place. The fact that multiple products across different companies have been affected suggests a systematic problem rather than an isolated incident. As federal agencies continue their investigation, consumers would be wise to check the FDA website regularly for updates, as additional products may be added to the recall list.
For consumers who believe they may have experienced adverse effects from consuming these products, health officials recommend seeking prompt medical attention. The recall serves as yet another reminder that our food supply system requires constant vigilance, robust quality control measures, and swift action when contamination is discovered to protect public health and maintain consumer confidence in the food products they purchase.
