Consumer Complaints Trigger Massive Recall (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Las Vegas – A sweeping recall of over 3.3 million pounds of frozen chicken fried rice products has prompted urgent warnings for shoppers at Trader Joe’s stores nationwide, including those in the Las Vegas Valley.[1][2]
Consumer Complaints Trigger Massive Recall
Four reports from consumers who discovered glass fragments in the frozen meals led Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc., to issue the voluntary recall. The Portland, Oregon-based company acted swiftly after these incidents surfaced. Federal officials classified the action as a response to possible foreign material contamination.[1]
No confirmed injuries resulted from consumption, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. The products involved were manufactured at the firm’s facility under establishment number P-18356. Production occurred between September 8, 2025, and November 17, 2025. This scale of recall underscores the potential risks posed by even small foreign objects in food.[1]
Specific Products Targeted in the Recall
Shoppers need to inspect their freezers carefully for the affected items. The primary product sold in the U.S. consists of 20-ounce plastic bags labeled “Trader Joe’s Chicken Fried Rice with stir fried rice, vegetables, seasoned dark chicken meat and eggs.” These packages carry “BEST BY” dates ranging from 9/8/2026 to 11/17/2026.[1]
A secondary item, a 1.53-kilogram cardboard package containing six bags of frozen “AJINOMOTO YAKITORI CHICKEN WITH JAPANESE-STYLE FRIED RICE,” bears “BEST BEFORE/MEILLEUR AVANT” dates from 26 SE 09 to 26 NO 12. This version went only to Canadian retailers. All recalled products display the establishment number P-18356 within the USDA mark of inspection. The total weight recalled stands at approximately 3,370,530 pounds.[1]
- Trader Joe’s Chicken Fried Rice: 20-oz. bags, BEST BY 9/8/2026–11/17/2026
- Ajinomoto Yakitori: 1.53-kg. boxes (6 bags), BEST BEFORE 26 SE 09–26 NO 12 (Canada only)
- Look for P-18356 on packaging
- Frozen, not ready-to-eat chicken fried rice
Nationwide Distribution Includes Local Stores
The Trader Joe’s branded rice reached retail locations across the United States, placing it in freezers from coast to coast. Las Vegas Valley residents who frequent the chain’s local outlets should verify purchases made in recent months. The Canadian product stayed north of the border.[2]
Ajinomoto Foods North America produced these items at its Portland facility, identified as M18356 and P18356. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the recall on February 19, 2026. Retail distribution lists will appear on the FSIS website as they become available. This event highlights ongoing challenges in food manufacturing quality control.[1]
Guidance for Affected Consumers
Individuals with the recalled products must not consume them. The safest steps involve discarding the items or returning them to the purchase point for a refund. Freezer-stocked meals matching the descriptions warrant immediate attention.[1]
For questions, contact Ajinomoto Consumer Affairs at (855) 742-5011 or customercare@ajinomotofoods.com. Media inquiries go to Corporate PR at (909) 477-4800 or MediaInquiry@ajinomotofoods.com. The USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline remains available at 1-888-674-6854 or MPHotline@usda.gov. Full details appear in the official notice at FSIS recall page.[1]
Key Takeaways
- Inspect Trader Joe’s Chicken Fried Rice bags for BEST BY dates 9/8/2026–11/17/2026 and P-18356.
- Glass contamination reported in four cases; no injuries confirmed.
- Discard or return products immediately – do not eat.
Recalls such as this one reinforce the value of checking labels and reporting issues promptly to protect public health. Local Trader Joe’s patrons in Las Vegas can stay ahead by reviewing their supplies today. What steps will you take to ensure your pantry remains safe? Share your thoughts in the comments.
