Recall of Publix and Costco Salad Dressings Due to Potential Plastic Contamination Affects Over 4,000 Cases

Federal authorities are urging shoppers to inspect recent deli and food-court purchases after Ventura Foods recalled more than 4,000 cases of salad dressings and sauces that may contain plastic fragments. The recall affects multiple brands and products distributed nationwide.

An FDA Enforcement Report dated December 4 indicates that a black plastic substance, originating from planting materials in granulated onions, may have contaminated certain batches of condiments. Consumption of these foreign objects could pose a risk of internal injury.

Affected Products

• Pepper Mill Regal Caesar Dressing (128 fl oz, 1 GAL)
• Sysco Creamy Poblano Avocado Ranch Dressing & Dip
• Publix Deli Carolina-Style Mustard BBQ Sauce (Lot B28725)
• Costco Service Deli Caesar Dressing (Lots B28025, B28125, B28225, B29025, B29125, B29225)
• Costco Food Court Caesar Dressing (Best by March 4, 2026)
• Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch (Lot MFG102725H)
• Monarch Italian Salad Dressing (Lot B29525)
• Ventura Caesar Dressing (Lot P27525)
• Pepper Mill Creamy Caesar Dressing (Lot H29025)

The recall spans various types of dressings, including Caesar, ranch, and mustard-based sauces, supplied to delis, cafeterias, and food-service locations in 27 states. Notably, major retailers like Costco and Publix are affected, with some products incorporated into prepared foods sold in their delis and food courts.

Costco has initiated its own recall of select Caesar Salad and Chicken Sandwich with Caesar Salad items sold at both deli counters and food courts. More retailers may announce recalls as the investigation progresses.

Geographical Reach

The recalled items were distributed to 42 retail locations across Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Consumer Guidance

Because these products were used in deli and food-service preparations, meals made with the recalled dressings could also be contaminated. Consumers who possess any of the affected products or dishes are advised to either discard them or return them to the point of purchase for a refund. Eating these items is strongly discouraged to avoid potential injury.

Author: Gavin Porter