FDA Recall--Flavoring Ingredient "HVP"

The United States Food and Drug Administration has issued a recall for products containing a common flavor enhancer--hydrolized vegetable protein, or HVP--manufactured and distributed by Basic Food Flavors, Inc. According to a press release dated March 4, 2010, HVP "is a common ingredient used most frequently as a flavor enhancer in many processed foods, including soups, sauces, chilis, stews, hot dogs, gravies, seasoned snack foods, dips and dressings."

An updated listing of recalled products can be viewed here on the FDA website.

This New York Times article dated March 4, 2010, refers to the recall as low risk with regard to public health and safety, but offers this recall as an example of the vulnerabilities of the current food safety system.