- Date issued: April 18, 2025
- Announced by: FSIS on April 19, 2025
- Company: Cargill Meat Solutions
- Product name: Pork Carnitas – Seasoned & Seared Pork with Juices
- Issue: Possible contamination with metal fragments
- Product details: 16 oz tray, “Use By” 06/30/2025 or 07/01/2025
- How to take action: Do not consume – toss it or return it
Wanna know more about what happened? Keep on reading!
What happened?
On April 18, 2025, the FSIS issued a public health alert (not a formal recall) for a pork product that may have you chewing more than you bargained for—metal pieces, to be exact. The culprit? Cargill’s Pork Carnitas, slow-cooked in citrus, but possibly garnished with hardware.
The potential contamination was discovered by the company itself during routine processing checks. Damaged equipment likely introduced metal into the product, prompting immediate action from FSIS.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Brand | Product | Size | UPC/Est. # | Best By Dates | Issue |
Cargill | Pork Carnitas (Seasoned & Seared Pork with Juices) | 16 oz tray | Est. 46049 | 06/30/2025, 07/01/2025 | Potential metal contamination |
These products were shipped nationwide to Aldi stores, so if you’re an Aldi shopper and stocked up on carnitas, check that fridge!
What caused the issue?
This wasn’t your typical seasoning slip-up. The issue here is foreign material contamination—in this case, metal fragments that may have snuck into the pork carnitas during production. According to Cargill, the fragments likely came from damaged processing equipment, discovered during a routine internal check. While it’s unclear how much metal made it into the product, the risk was enough for FSIS to issue a public health alert.
Why is metal contamination so serious?
Even the smallest piece of metal in food can lead to severe injury if swallowed or bitten. Metal fragments are considered a Class I health hazard by the USDA, which is the most serious classification for recalls. Here’s what makes it so dangerous:
- Choking hazard: Particularly for young children or elderly consumers
- Cuts or lacerations: In the mouth, throat, stomach, or intestines
- Infection risk: From internal injuries that go untreated
- Emergency surgeries: In worst-case scenarios where fragments lodge internally
Who’s most at risk?
- Children: Less likely to notice something wrong while chewing
- Elderly consumers: More vulnerable to complications if injured
- People with dental work: Crowns and fillings don’t mix well with metal bits
- Anyone not expecting a “crunch” in their slow-cooked carnitas
Symptoms of metal fragment ingestion
If you’ve consumed the product and notice any of the following, seek medical attention:
- Sharp pain in the mouth or throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Abdominal discomfort or cramping
- Blood in saliva or stool
- Sudden dental damage or broken teeth
- Nausea or vomiting
10 questions you might have
Q1: What’s wrong with the pork carnitas I bought from Aldi?
A: They may contain small pieces of metal due to damaged equipment during processing. FSIS issued a public health alert.
Q2: How can I tell if my package is affected?
A: Check the “Use By” date (06/30/2025 or 07/01/2025) and look for establishment number “Est. 46049” on the label.
Q3: What happens if I already ate some and feel fine?
A: If you don’t have symptoms, you’re probably okay—but if anything feels off, contact a healthcare provider.
Q4: Are these metal fragments visible?
A: Not necessarily. Some fragments may be tiny and hard to spot, especially in saucy or shredded meat.
Q5: Is this a recall?
A: Technically, no—it’s a public health alert, because the product is no longer on shelves. But consumers are still urged to discard or return it.
Q6: Where was the product sold?
A: Nationwide, exclusively through Aldi supermarkets.
Q7: Can I return it for a refund?
A: Yes. Bring it back to Aldi or contact their customer service for assistance.
Q8: Is there a chance this metal got into other Cargill products?
A: FSIS hasn’t indicated other products are affected, but it’s always smart to check labels and stay informed.
Q9: Has anyone gotten hurt?
A: No confirmed injuries have been reported so far.
Q10: Who can I call if I have questions?
A: Consumers can contact Cargill’s hotline at 1-844-419-1574 or email [email protected]. For food safety questions, call USDA’s Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854.
Here’s what you should do
Here’s how to protect your palate:
- Check the Label: Look for “Pork Carnitas” with use-by dates of 06/30/2025 or 07/01/2025.
- Locate the Est. Number: Find “Est. 46049” inside the USDA inspection mark.
- Dispose or Return: Toss it in the bin or take it back to Aldi.
- Questions? Contact Cargill’s Consumer Hotline: 1-844-419-1574
Media inquiries: [email protected]
Or visit the USDA Complaint System
Behind the brand
Cargill Meat Solutions, based in Round Rock, Texas, is a well-known supplier in the meat industry, offering everything from beef to pork to—you guessed it—carnitas. Similar recalls occurred on past months:
- On March 20, 2025, Idaho Smokehouse Partners issued a recall of approximately 29,541 pounds of their ready-to-eat CHOMPS Original Beef Stick Mild due to potential contamination with metal fragments.
- On February 15, 2025, Great Lakes Cheese Co. Inc. initiated a recall of 400 cases (approximately 4,800 pouches) of their Happy Farms by ALDI Colby Jack Finely Shredded Cheese.
- Tru Fru recalls freeze dried fruit snacks due to potential metal contamination
“When metal fragments slip through, it shows why strict quality checks need to be in place at every step. Shoppers expect their food to be safe, and that trust only holds when companies invest in strong detection systems, stay transparent, and act fast when something goes wrong. These alerts reinforce just how important it is for the industry to stay sharp, especially as production continues to scale.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’s CEO.
The good news? Cargill caught the issue early and took swift action. The bad news? If you had taco night planned, you might need a plan B.
Ensuring safe eats
Foreign material recalls like this highlight a critical reminder for food manufacturers and suppliers: your equipment matters. Damaged tools can lead to major safety issues, even after cooking. It’s not just about taste—it’s about trust.
This situation shows just how fast a product can go from shelf to spotlight. For foodservice operators, bulk buyers, and co-manufacturers, it’s a clear sign to double-check your sourcing and QA processes.
To recap:
- Do not eat the recalled pork carnitas.
- Check labels for Est. 46049 and use-by dates of 06/30/25 or 07/01/25.
- Contact Cargill or USDA if you have questions.
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