Hillshire Brands Recalls 58 Million Pounds of Corn Dogs and Sausages Due to Wood Contamination

What's Happening?

The Hillshire Brands Company has issued a recall for 58 million pounds of corn dog and sausage on a stick products due to potential contamination with wood pieces embedded in the batter. This recall was prompted by multiple consumer complaints, including five reports of injuries. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall after determining that wooden sticks had inadvertently entered the production process before the products were battered. The affected products include State Fair Corn Dogs on a Stick and Jimmy Dean Pancakes & Sausage on a Stick, which were packaged between March 17 and September 26, 2025. These items, bearing establishment numbers “EST-582” or “P-894,” were distributed nationwide to retail, food service locations, school districts, and Department of Defense facilities. Consumers are advised to either dispose of the products or return them to the place of purchase.

Why It's Important?

This recall is significant as it affects a large volume of food products distributed across various sectors, including retail, food service, and government facilities. The potential for injury due to wood contamination poses a health risk to consumers, highlighting the importance of stringent quality control measures in food production. The recall could impact Hillshire Brands' reputation and financial performance, as it may lead to a loss of consumer trust and potential legal liabilities. Additionally, this incident underscores the critical role of regulatory bodies like the FSIS in ensuring food safety and protecting public health. The recall also serves as a reminder for other food manufacturers to review and enhance their safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences.

What's Next?

Hillshire Brands will likely focus on identifying and rectifying the source of the contamination to prevent future incidents. The company may also engage in public relations efforts to mitigate any damage to its brand image. Regulatory agencies will continue to monitor the situation to ensure compliance with food safety standards. Consumers and institutions affected by the recall will need to manage the disposal or return of the contaminated products. This incident may prompt other food manufacturers to reassess their production processes and safety measures to avoid similar issues.