Mezzetta Recalls Peperoncini After Rodent Found in Jar

A California-based food manufacturer is recalling a specific batch of peperoncini after a consumer reported finding a rodent inside the jar. Mezzetta confirmed the recall was filed with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) following the discovery.

The issue came to light after a video posted to TikTok on September 16 showed a woman preparing Mississippi-style pot roast. In the clip, she revealed a dead baby mouse inside a jar of Mezzetta GOLDEN GREEK PEPERONCINI MEDIUM HEAT.

“We’re aware of a video circulating on social media showing a potential pest contaminant in a jar of Mezzetta GOLDEN GREEK PEPERONCINI MEDIUM HEAT, 32-ounce,” the company stated in its recall notice. “We have contacted the consumer and have moved quickly to investigate the situation and initiate a voluntary recall.”

The recall is limited to 32-ounce jars of the medium heat variety, which officials warn “may contain foreign objects such as pest contamination.” Mezzetta emphasized that the recall applies to only one product from a single production lot.

So far, the company has not received any reports of illnesses or injuries linked to the contaminated product. Mezzetta has asked retail partners to remove the affected items from shelves and is coordinating with the FDA. The company also identified the customers who received the product from the specific lot and is working directly with them to isolate and retrieve the jars. Mezzetta has requested the return of the original contaminated product to aid in its investigation.