Massive recall issued for popular pork jerky over dangerous metal contamination

A major recall is now underway for more than 2.2 million pounds of jerky linked to potential metal contamination.

Officials say the affected products could contain thin pieces of metal wire, posing a risk to anyone who consumes them.

What went wrong with the jerky

The company at the center of this recall is LSI, Inc., based in Alpena, South Dakota. Their “Golden Island Fire-Grilled Pork Jerky Korean Barbecue Recipe” has been a popular treat at big-box retailers like Costco and Sam’s Club.

But after several customers reported finding wiry metal pieces in their jerky, the company, in cooperation with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), decided to recall the affected products voluntarily.

A conveyor belt in the production line that apparently shed some of its metal components into the jerky. While no injuries have been reported so far, the risk is serious enough that the recall is being taken very seriously.

How to identify the recalled jerky

The dates are printed on the side of the package, and since jerky has a long shelf life, there's a real possibility you might have a recalled bag tucked away somewhere.

Image source: Golden Island Jerky

Why this matters especially for seniors

Metal fragments can damage teeth or cause internal injury, and dental problems or internal injuries can be particularly serious for older adults.

Beyond the immediate safety concerns, this recall highlights why it's so important to stay vigilant about food recalls. Many of us stock up on shelf-stable snacks like jerky precisely because they last so long, but that also means recalled products can linger in our pantries longer than we might realize.

Also read: Is your cholesterol medication affected by a nationwide recall? Here's what to know

What to do right now

If you find matching jerky in your home, here's your action plan:

• Don't eat it. Even if you've had some from the same bag without problems, don't consume any more of the product.
  
• Don't try to inspect it yourself. You shouldn't have to hunt for metal pieces.
  
• Throw the product away or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
  
• Check other areas where you might store snacks—car glove compartments, desk drawers, travel bags.

Also read: A hidden crisis emerges: Why seniors are becoming unexpected victims of America's deadliest drug combinations

Getting help and staying informed

Have questions about the recall? You can contact the company directly at [email protected]. For general food safety questions, the USDA operates a toll-free hotline at 888-674-6854.

The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service will continue monitoring this recall and will post retail distribution lists on their website at fsis.usda.gov/recalls as they become available.

Stay aware of recalls by bookmarking the USDA's recall page or signing up for alerts from the FDA. When you hear about a recall, take a few minutes to check your pantry—it's a small step that can prevent big problems.

Read next:

• Unexpected recall hits beloved chocolate treat sold in stores across 14 states
• Could your favorite Coca-Cola drink be contaminated? FDA issues urgent recall warning
• Another egg recall raises safety concerns—what to know before your next breakfast

Key Takeaways

• Over 2.2 million pounds of Korean barbecue pork jerky have been recalled in the US due to possible contamination with pieces of metal wire.
• The affected jerky was sold at Costco and Sam’s Club stores, with best-before dates from 23 October 2025 to 23 September 2026, and features the establishment number M279A on the packaging.
• The recall was initiated after customers found wiry metal in the product, which company officials traced back to a conveyor belt used in production, though no confirmed injuries have been reported.
• Consumers are advised not to eat the recalled jerky and should either dispose of it or return it to the store for a refund.

Have you found any recalled jerky in your home, or do you have questions about handling food recalls safely? Share your experiences in the comments below—your insights might help a neighbor stay safe.