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

What's Happening?

The Hillshire Brands Company has initiated a recall of approximately 58 million pounds of corn dog and sausage on a stick products due to contamination with wood pieces. This recall was announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) following reports of five consumer injuries. The affected products were packaged between March 17, 2025, and September 26, 2025, and distributed nationwide to retail stores, food service locations, schools, and Department of Defense facilities. The contamination was traced back to wooden sticks entering the production process before the battering stage. Consumers are advised to check for establishment numbers "EST-582" or "P-894" on packaging and to dispose of or return the products.

Why It's Important?

This recall is significant as it represents one of the largest food safety recalls of the year, impacting millions of consumers across the United States. The presence of wood pieces in food products poses a serious injury risk, particularly given the wide distribution to schools and military facilities. This incident underscores the critical importance of stringent safety protocols in large-scale food production to prevent widespread health risks. The recall also highlights the potential for significant economic and reputational damage to Hillshire Brands, as well as the broader implications for consumer trust in food safety standards.

What's Next?

FSIS will conduct recall effectiveness checks to ensure that Hillshire Brands properly notifies customers and that contaminated products are removed from circulation. The agency will also post retail distribution lists on its website as they become available. Consumers who believe they have been injured by these products are advised to contact healthcare providers and report issues through FSIS's Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System or the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline. The investigation into the recall will continue as FSIS works to ensure all affected products are withdrawn from the market.