Chomps Beef Stick Recall—Nearly 30,000 Pounds Pulled Over Contamination Risk

A voluntary recall has been issued for Chomps Original Beef Stick Mild after metal fragments were discovered in the product, according to an annoucement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

Nearly 30,000 pounds of ready-to-eat beef sticks have been pulled from shelves in a Class I recall the most serious classification, indicating a risk of serious health consequences if consumed.

Why the Chomps Beef Sticks Recall Was Issued

This recall was initiated voluntarily by Idaho Smokehouse Partners, LLC, the manufacturer of Chomps beef sticks out of an abundance of caution after recieving two consumer complaints reporting pieces of metal in the product.

While no injuries have been confirmed, FSIS warns that consuming the affected items could pose a serious health risk.

Chomps addressed the recall in a statement, explaining:

“The issue was discovered after Chomps investigated two consumer complaints reporting the potential presence of metal fragment in the meat stick product. There have been no reported adverse reaction or injuries. This internal recall was initiated as a precautionary measure out of an abundance of caution. Our consumers are, and always will be, our number one priority.”

Which Chomps Beef Sticks Are Affected?

Consumers should check for the following recalled products:

• Product: Chomps Original Beef Stick Mild
• Package Details: 1.15-ounce vacuum-sealed packages
• Expiration Date: February 10, 2026
• Lot Code: 25016
• Establishment Number: “6220A” printed on the package
• Production Dates: January 13 to January 15, 2025
• Distribution: Retail locations in California and Illinois

A full list of affected products and additional details can be found on the Chomps recall page.

What to Do If You Have the Recalled Chomps Beef Sticks

FSIS urges consumers to check their pantries and take the following actions:

• Do not eat the recalled Chomps beef sticks.
• Dispose of the product or return it to the store for a refund.
• If you have concerns about injury or illness, contact a healthcare provider.

Customers with questions about the recall can visit the Chomps recall page or contact Idaho Smokehouse Partners at 208-227-5282 or email [email protected].

How the USDA and FSIS Handle Recalls vs. the FDA

While consumers may see many recalls through the FDA, the USDA oversees food safety through its Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). This is the body which is responsible for monitoring recalls of meat, poultry, and egg products in the U.S. When a possible food safety issue is identified, FSIS works with manufacturers to classify recalls based on risk:

• Class I (highest risk): A reasonable probability of serious health consequences or death.
• Class II: A remote health risk.
• Class III: A violation of regulations with no direct health risk.

In this case, the Chomps recall falls under a Class I designation, meaning FSIS determined the presence of metal could pose a serious health risk if consumed.

Unlike the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)—which oversees recalls of packaged foods, beverages, and dietary supplements—the USDA handles recalls for meat, poultry, and egg products.

While both agencies work with manufacturers to investigate safety concerns, FSIS recalls tend to involve contaminants like bacteria (E. coli, Salmonella), foreign materials, or labeling errors in USDA-regulated products. Meanwhile, the FDA is responsible for recalls related to packaged foods, allergens, and foodborne illnesses in non-meat products.

Chomps’ voluntary recall highlights how the USDA recall process works in collaboration with food producers to ensure consumer safety while allowing companies to take proactive steps when concerns arise.

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