Jif peanut butter recall impacting local charity that helps feed families in need

A salmonella outbreak has Jif peanut butter getting recalled, and it’s impacting a local charity that uses it to help feed families in need.

>> Recall alert: Some Jif peanut butter products recalled by J.M. Smucker

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said 14 people in a dozen states, including Ohio, have gotten sick. Two people ended up in the hospital.

The Jif products under recall were produced at the J.M. Smucker facility in Lexington, Kentucky.

Peanut butter can have a two year shelf life, and the CDC and FDA are urging everybody to check their pantry. On its website, the FDA listed the affected peanut butter products by code numbers, which are between 1274425 and 2140425.

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The Ronald McDonald House in Dayton said it had to get rid 30 units of Jif peanut butter after hearing about the recall.

Program Director Julie Arias told News Center 7 that 30 units is equivalent to a six-week supply of peanut butter, and now they only have about a week’s worth on their shelves.

The RMHC says the salmonella contamination is a big problem for the non-profit because peanut butter is an easy go-to protein for kids in recovery.

“It’s a comfort food. It’s something that makes us feel very much at home and it’s just there when we need it we can use it with fruit, bread or crackers. So it’s just a really good, nutrient food, especially for the kids that are going through treatments,” Arias said.

Arias tried calling Jif corporate to see if they could get a reimbursement of good peanut butter, but after being on hold for nearly two hours, could not get through to someone.

The company’s website has the following information regarding reimbursements:

“We are committed to reimbursing affected consumers. Due to high contact volume at our call centers, we have developed a Recall Contact Form to help expedite support.”

Consumers with questions can also contact J.M. Smucker at www.jif.com/contact-us or call 800-828-9980 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT.