Illnesses at Hawaii schools potentially linked to milk rise to 15

As of Thursday morning, the state Department of Health had received reports of approximately 15 individuals experiencing gastrointestinal illness potentially linked to recently recalled Meadow Gold chocolate milk. Most cases involve mild symptoms, including stomach pain, nausea and vomiting.

On Wednesday, the number of reported illnesses was nine.

The illnesses have affected four school facilities on Oahu. Two additional schools — one on Maui and another on Oahu — have reported product quality issues but no confirmed illnesses. Health officials emphasize that the investigation is ongoing and numbers may change as more information becomes available.

At this time, no confirmed link has been established between the recalled milk and the reported illnesses. Laboratory testing of milk samples is underway, including checks for bacterial toxins. Preliminary inspections at the affected schools have not identified any food safety violations.

The investigation began after Meadow Gold Dairy voluntarily recalled about 70,000 half-pint cartons of chocolate milk with an Oct. 16 expiration date. The milk, made and packaged out of state, was distributed on Sept. 29 to nearly 200 schools and institutions across Oahu, Maui and Kauai.

The recall was issued due to “potential quality control issues,” according to a DOH news release Tuesday night.

DOH officials also confirmed reports that some of the milk had an unusually thick texture, resembling chocolate pudding.

Meadow Gold officials said the company is coordinating with the Health Department and the state Department of Education to collect and replace the affected products.

Residents are urged to call the DOH Disease Reporting Line at (808) 586-4586 if they or their child experience symptoms after drinking the recalled milk. Those with severe or concerning symptoms should seek medical care immediately.

Officials also advise consumers not to drink Meadow Gold chocolate milk marked “OCT 16” and to discard any product that looks, smells or tastes unusual.
Source: The Garden Island