Deoleo, the world’s largest olive oil company, has initiated a voluntary recall of Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil (8.5 oz.) and Carapelli Extra Virgin Olive Oil, (25.5 oz.), sold in glass bottles in 20 U.S. states, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Recall Information database.
The products are being recalled due to the detection of trace amounts of Trifloxystrobin and Tebuconazole — two pesticides that the U.S. does not allow in any amount in olive oil. Both of the chemicals are classified as “not likely human carcinogens.”
Last November, Deoleo USA issued a voluntary recall withdrawing some of its Bertolli and Carapelli Extra Light Tasting and Bertolli Classico Pure Olive Oil because the products may have prematurely spoiled, according to notices sent to several major retailers.
“Our investigation to date reveals that the oil has prematurely oxidized, causing potential off odor and taste, which presents a quality but not a health issue,” the company said at the time. “We have identified the source of the problem with one of our refining suppliers and have taken immediate corrective action.”
In another development, the U.S. distributor for Bertolli and Filippo Berio olive oils, attacked the credibility of the lead plaintiff in a class-action lawsuit against the importer.
According to Law360, Salov North America Corp. said in an opposition to Rohini Kumar’s class certification motion that there was no evidence to support Kumar’s claim that she interpreted “Imported from Italy” to mean the oil was only made with Italian olives.
Salov also pointed out that Kumar had been convicted as a felon which, the company argued, cast further doubt on her credibility as a lead witness.
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