Full Breakdown
Nationwide Recall of Hillshire Brands Corn Dog Products Due to Wood Contamination
9/28/2025, 8:28:39 PM
Overview of the Recall
The Hillshire Brands Company has issued a nationwide recall of approximately 58 million pounds of corn dog and sausage on a stick products due to contamination concerns involving pieces of wood embedded in the batter. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall on Saturday, following reports of injuries linked to the affected products.
Details of the Contamination
The contamination was discovered after the company received multiple consumer complaints, five of which involved injuries. An investigation revealed that wooden sticks used in the production process entered the batter before frying. The recalled products were packaged between March 17 and September 26, 2025, and bear the establishment numbers “EST-582” or “P-894” on their packaging.
Affected Products and Distribution
The recall includes over 25 different products sold under the Jimmy Dean and State Fair brands, as well as unbranded items. These products were distributed to retail and food service locations nationwide, including school districts and Department of Defense facilities. Importantly, the items sent to schools were part of commercial sales and not affiliated with the USDA's National School Lunch Program.
Consumer Advisory
FSIS has expressed concern that some of the recalled products may still be present in consumers’ refrigerators and freezers. Consumers, schools, and institutions that have purchased these items are urged not to consume them. Instead, they should either dispose of the products or return them to the place of purchase. A complete list of the recalled items and their labels can be found on the FSIS website.
Official Statements & Responses
The FSIS has emphasized the seriousness of the situation, categorizing the recall as a Class I recall, which indicates a health hazard where there is a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. Christina Self, the Associate Director of Customer Care at Hillshire Brands, is available for inquiries at 888-747-7611.
Criticism & Opposition
While the recall has been widely reported, some consumer advocates have raised concerns about the adequacy of food safety measures in place at Hillshire Brands. Critics argue that the presence of wood in food products indicates a failure in quality control processes, potentially putting consumers at risk.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The problem was discovered after the establishment received multiple consumer complaints, five of which involved injuries.” — U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service
- “Consumers, schools, and institutions who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them.” — U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service
What's Next
FSIS will conduct routine checks to ensure that the recalling firm has notified its customers and that steps are taken to prevent the affected products from being available to consumers. A list of retail distributors for the affected products will be posted on the FSIS website as it becomes available.