9 Salad Dressings Recalled in 27 States Over Possible Plastic Contamination
A wide-ranging salad dressing recall is affecting grocery shoppers across 27 states after FDA warned that certain deli and food-service products may contain pieces of black plastic. Thousands of gallons of dressings, dips, and sauces have been pulled from circulation as the manufacturer and retailers work to remove affected batches from shelves and prepared foods. Here’s what consumers need to know.
What Triggered the Recall
According to FDA enforcement reports, Ventura Foods determined that black plastic planting material found in granulated onion may have entered multiple dressing batches. The potential contamination poses a risk of internal injury if consumed. The recall is classified as a Class II event, meaning the likelihood of severe harm is low but still concerning.
How Many Products Are Affected
More than 4,000 cases of dressings and condiments were recalled, spanning Caesar dressings, ranch dips, Italian dressing, and mustard-based sauces. These products were distributed to delis, cafeterias, food courts, and retail food-service locations.
The Brands and Items Included
Several recognizable brands appear in the recall, including deli items sold at Publix and multiple Caesar dressings used in Costco’s service deli and food court. A batch of Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch produced for food-service use was also included, along with select Sysco sauces supplied to restaurants and prepared-food counters.
Retailers Impacted
The recalled dressings were distributed across Costco, Publix, Sysco’s food-service network, and additional retail and restaurant partners. Some of these products were used directly in prepared meals, prompting Costco to issue an additional recall announcement for its Caesar Salad and its Chicken Sandwich with Caesar Salad.
Where the Products Were Distributed
The recall spans 42 retail locations across 27 states, including Florida, Georgia, Texas, Colorado, Illinois, Michigan, North Carolina, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and more. One retailer in Costa Rica also received affected products.
Why Plastic Contamination Is Dangerous
The FDA notes that foreign materials such as hard plastic fragments can injure the mouth, throat, or digestive tract. Even small particles may pose a risk, especially for children or older adults. Because contamination is difficult to detect visually, officials advise consumers to err on the side of caution.
What Consumers Should Do Now
Officials advise consumers to discard affected items immediately or return them for a refund. Because many products were used in deli-prepared dishes, shoppers should also check any recent purchases like salads or sandwiches made with Caesar dressing.
Why Hidden Valley Fans Should Know This Too
Although one recalled item carries the Hidden Valley name, a brand representative stated that this batch was never sold to consumers and was intended only for food service. Still, its inclusion in the recall means restaurants and delis may have received it, further underscoring the need for awareness.
How Long the Recall Will Continue
Ventura Foods initiated the recall on November 6, 2025, and it remains ongoing as retailers continue removing affected stock. Additional prepared foods may be identified as investigations progress. Consumers are encouraged to monitor updates from the FDA’s recall site.
Staying Informed
With multiple retailers and products involved, this recall reaches far beyond bottled dressings. Shoppers who recently purchased deli salads, dips, or prepared Caesar dishes should double-check their items and follow FDA guidance. Staying aware helps ensure the products on your table are safe.
