More than 250,000 pounds of Hormel beef stew recalled due to possible wood chips in feed – These are the affected lots and products nationwide

If you recently bought a can of Dinty Moore Beef Stew, you may want to double-check your pantry. Hormel Foods Corporation has issued a massive recall of approximately 256,185 pounds of beef stew due to the possible presence of wood chips in the product.

The recall was officially announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) on May 28, 2025. According to the notice, the concern is that the affected cans may contain foreign materials, specifically small pieces of wood. That is a safety risk, especially if someone unknowingly consumes it.

Read more: Recall of oysters shipped to several states for possible norovirus contamination – These are all affected lots and supermarkets in the U.S.

What products are included in the hormel beef stew recall?

You are probably wondering which exact products are affected. The recall applies specifically to:

• 20-ounce metal cans of Dinty Moore Beef Stew
  
• They carry a “Best By” date of February 2028
  
• The lot code is 02045
  
• You will also see Establishment number EST 199G printed on the packaging
  

These products were produced on February 4, 2025, and were shipped to retail locations nationwide, so no matter where you are in the U.S., this could affect you.

Has anyone been hurt by the contaminated beef stew?

So far, three consumers have reported finding wood chips inside their cans. Thankfully, no injuries or illnesses have been confirmed. However, FSIS urges that the recalled stew should not be consumed under any circumstances.

This recall falls under what the USDA classifies as a Class I recall, which means there is a reasonable probability that the product could cause health problems if eaten.

Read more: Bedner Growers implicated in salmonella outbreak in U.S. – These are the cucumbers that have been recalled nationwide

What should you do if you have one of the recalled cans?

First, take a look at the can’s label. If you see the 02045 lot code, a Best By date of February 2028, and the EST 199G establishment number, do not eat it. You should either:

• Return the can to the store where you bought it for a refund
  
• Or throw it away to be safe
  

If you are unsure or have concerns, you can also contact Hormel’s consumer hotline or visit the FSIS website for more guidance.

Is there any risk if you already ate the beef stew?

If you already consumed a can and did not notice anything off, you are most likely in the clear. But if you experienced any unusual symptoms or think you might have swallowed something like wood, it is best to speak with a doctor. Better to be safe than sorry, right?

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