USDA Warns of Plastic Contamination in Beef Jerky

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a nationwide health alert for certain Riverbend Ranch Original and Jalapeño Beef Stick products due to potential contamination with clear plastic fragments. The alert was prompted by consumer complaints about finding plastic pieces in the products. These ready-to-eat jerky sticks were produced by Top Notch Jerky LLC (EST. 47282) on May 27, 2025, and have a best-by date of November 27, 2026. The affected products were distributed nationwide, including Puerto Rico, but are no longer being sold, so a formal recall was not issued. No injuries or illnesses have been reported. FSIS and the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline are offering additional food safety guidance for consumers.