RECALL WATCH LIST: Lettuce, toaster ovens, sandals, sweaters, step stools and vehicles pulled for safety

The FDA says an earlier Cyclospora detection in the lettuce was a false positive, but the recall remains in place as a precaution.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — If you’re heading out to shop or just going about your daily routine, you’ll want to know about several important new recalls that could affect your safety.

Taylor Fresh Foods recalls iceberg lettuce amid Cyclospora outbreak; FDA clarifies test results 

Taylor Fresh Foods is recalling all of its iceberg lettuce sourced from Central Mexico after a parasite outbreak linked to explosive diarrhea. The lettuce was shipped to 27 states, including Georgia, between June 29 and July 16. The company says no other products are affected, and Taylor Farms branded salad kits don’t contain this iceberg lettuce.  The recall comes after the CDC linked cases of cyclosporiasis to lettuce sold at some Taco Bell restaurants. The CDC is also urging people in five states (IN, KY, MI, OH, and WV) to avoid eating lettuce at Taco Bell. 

The Food and Drug Administration is stepping back from an earlier statement that indicated the presence of Cyclospora in a sample of lettuce from Taylor Farms. The FDA now says the detection it reported over the weekend was a false positive and the parasite has not been identified in test samples to this point.

However, the agency is not backing away from its conclusion that Taylor Farms remains linked to a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis through its traceback investigation. The company’s iceberg lettuce from Central Mexico is still recalled as a precaution, and testing continues.

The Cyclospora parasite can cause a potentially weeks-long illness with explosive diarrhea. According to the CDC, nearly 7,000 cases have either been confirmed or are under investigation.

Panasonic Toaster Ovens pulled for fire risk

In another recall, Panasonic has pulled more than 11,000 electric toaster ovens from stores due to a defect in the power cord insulation that could lead to shock or fire hazards. While there have been four reports of tripped circuit breakers, there have been no injuries or fires. Panasonic is offering full refunds to customers with affected models.

Children’s sandals recalled for choking hazard

Parents should be aware that over 200,000 pairs of Cat & Jack children’s sandals sold at Target are being recalled after 23 reports of decorative pearls coming off and posing a choking risk. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported, but the risk remains a concern.

Madewell sweaters recalled over burn risk

Madewell shoppers are being urged to stop wearing the company’s Double V-Neck Pullover and V-Neck Cardigan sweaters in light blue and cream, which are being recalled for failing federal flammability standards. Customers can receive a refund or store credit by cutting the sweater in half, taking a photo, and emailing it to the company.

Toddler step stools recalled for tipping danger

More than 100,000 Boon Pivot Collapsible Toddler Tower step stools, sold online at major retailers, are also being recalled after nearly a dozen reports of the stools tipping over. No injuries have been reported, but the risk of serious injury or death is significant. Owners should stop using the stools immediately and contact the company for a free repair kit.

Hyundai recalls vehicles for seat belt issue

Finally, Hyundai is recalling more than 47,000 Kona and Kona Electric vehicles due to a rear center seat belt buckle issue that may increase the risk of injury in a crash. No incidents or injuries have been reported so far, and owners will be notified about free repairs.