More than 160,000 pounds of meat bearing false USDA inspection labels recalled

Live updates

1. 1h ago

   USDA Recalls 167,000 Pounds of Meat With Fake Inspection Labels

   Federal authorities issued a nationwide recall for more than 167,000 pounds of raw beef, pork, and goat products distributed without proper federal inspection. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the recall after discovering the meat carried false inspection stickers featuring an establishment number that lacks a federal grant of inspection. The affected merchandise was produced before September 22 by Star Meat Delivery Inc. of Lucama, North Carolina, and shipped through a Georgia distributor named A&D Foods to retail and restaurant locations nationwide. No illnesses or injuries have been confirmed.

   Why it matters

   Uninspected meat products pose severe public health risks because they may carry harmful bacteria, undeclared allergens, or other dangerous contaminants. Federal inspection systems exist to verify that slaughter and processing facilities meet strict safety and sanitary standards before goods reach consumers. The recall highlights vulnerabilities in distribution networks when unverified processors bypass regulatory oversight.

   What is confirmed

   • Star Meat Delivery Inc. of Lucama, North Carolina, is recalling more than 167,000 pounds of raw pork, beef, and goat nationwide.
   • The recalled products carry false USDA inspection stickers bearing establishment number EST. 1363.
   • The U.S. Department of Agriculture assigned the recall its highest risk level.
   • There are no confirmed reports of illnesses or injuries linked to the recalled meat.
   • Products were shipped to Georgia distributor A&D Foods for delivery to retail and restaurant locations across the country.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Star Meat Delivery Inc. claims a fake USDA stamp was not used on the products.

   What to watch next

   • Further expansion of the nationwide recall as the USDA investigation continues.
   • Identification of additional retail stores or restaurants that received the uninspected meat products.
   Sources used for this update (20)

   1. USA Today — More than 80 tons of raw meat recalled as 'unsafe to eat'. See list
   2. TODAY.com — Over 160,000 Pounds of Meat Recalled Due to Lack of Inspection, Receives Highest Risk Level From USDA
   3. thehill.com — Massive meat recall affects beef, pork and more: USDA
   4. CNN — More than 167,000 pounds of meat with false inspection labels recalled nationwide
   5. AP News — More than 160,000 pounds of meat bearing false USDA inspection labels recalled
   6. ABC7 Chicago — Raw pork, beef and goat products recalled after being sold without USDA approval
   7. Boston.com — Over 160,000 pounds of ‘unsafe’ meat with fake USDA stamps recalled
   8. The New York Times — More Than 167,000 Pounds of Meat With False Inspection Mark Are Recalled
   9. eatingwell.com — Over 160,000 Pounds of Meat Recalled Nationwide
   10. Idaho Statesman — Meat sold in Idaho stores is ‘unsafe to eat,’ prompting massive recall
   11. FOX 8 News — Massive meat recall on beef, pork and more: USDA
   12. The New York Times — Distributor of Recalled Meat Worked for Years Without Proper Permits
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