"Detention Without Physical Examination of Black and White Pepper from Brazil"

In 1980, the Center for Disease Control reported several incidents of Salmonella Kingabwa (Group U). The cause of the outbreaks was believed to be the consumption of spices or condiments from the Far East.

Increased surveillance of all spices and condiments resulted in 13 detentions of black pepper from Brazil during FY 1983. Subsequently, during late FY 1985 and early FY 1986, of 26 shipments of black pepper from Brazil examined for Salmonella, 11 were found violative.

Black pepper from Brazil was placed on automatic detention January 30, 1986. Review of detention data reveals that Salmonella contamination of Brazilian pepper continues to be a problem.

Districts may detain, without physical sampling and analysis, all black and white pepper shipments from Brazil.

For questions or issues concerning science, science policy, sample collection, analysis, preparation, or analytical methodology, contact the Division of Field Science at 301 796-5992.

Whole and cracked black and white pepper

"The article is subject to refusal of admission pursuant to Section 801(a)(3) in that it appears to contain Salmonella, a poisonous and deleterious substance which may render it injurious to health [Adulteration, Section 402(a)(3)]."

OASIS charge code - SALMONELLLA