Algae Bloom Prompts DSHS to Close 3 Bays to Shellfish Harvesting, Issue Recall (March 7)
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has closed Aransas, Corpus Christi and Copano bays to shellfish harvesting and has issued a recall of oysters, clams and mussels because of an algae bloom. DSHS officials say high concentrations of the Dinophysis organism have been found in several locations in the area. The toxin produced by this algae bloom, okadaic acid, can accumulate in shellfish tissue and cause diarrhetic shellfish poisoning, or DSP, in people who consume oysters, clams or mussels. Cooking does not destroy the toxin.

Publix Issues Recall for Assorted Flavors of Empanadas (March 14)
Publix Super Markets is issuing a voluntary recall on all codes of prepackaged 2 and 4-pack Apple, Pineapple and Pumpkin Empanadas sold in retail bakeries due to the undeclared milk ingredient. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

Baxter to Proceed with Recall of Remaining Heparin Sodium Vial Products (Feb. 28)
Baxter International Inc. announced today that the company is proceeding with the voluntary recall of all remaining lots and doses of its heparin sodium injection multi-dose, single-dose vials and HEP-LOCK heparin flush products.