Trader Joe's Frozen Chicken Fried Rice Recalled After Glass Contamination, 3.4 Million Pounds Affected
Updated (2 articles)
Recall Initiated After Consumer Reports of Glass The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced a recall on February 20, 2026 after shoppers reported glass fragments in frozen chicken fried rice sold at Trader Joe’s [1][2]. The recall notice cites multiple incidents where consumers found sharp glass pieces while preparing the meals. Both outlets note that health officials have not recorded any injuries linked to the contamination.
Scope Covers Approximately 3.4 Million Pounds Nationwide FSIS identified roughly 3.4 million pounds of frozen fried‑rice products as compromised [1][2]. The recall targets two specific lines: “Ajinomoto Yakitori Chicken with Japanese‑Style Fried Rice” and “Trader Joe’s Chicken Fried Rice” containing stir‑fried rice, vegetables, seasoned dark chicken meat and eggs. The sheer volume indicates a large‑scale distribution problem across retail channels.
Geographic Distribution Differs Between Trader Joe’s and Ajinomoto Versions Trader Joe’s‑branded fried rice was shipped to stores throughout the United States, while the Ajinomoto‑labeled version was destined for Canadian retailers only [1][2]. This split limits the recall’s impact in Canada to the Ajinomoto product, whereas U.S. consumers face recall of both items. The distinction clarifies why the two companies issued joint but region‑specific advisories.
Packaging Details Include Establishment Number and Best‑by Dates Each package bears the USDA inspection mark with establishment number P‑18356 and lists best‑by dates ranging from September 8 to November 17, 2026 [1][2]. Label images posted on the FSIS website confirm these identifiers, helping shoppers verify affected items. The precise dating assists retailers in isolating the recalled batches.
No Injuries Reported, Consumers Advised to Discard or Return Health officials have received no confirmed injury reports, but they urge anyone who purchased the products to either discard them or return them to the point of sale [1][2]. The agencies recommend seeking medical care if any adverse symptoms appear. Refund policies remain unclear, prompting consumers to contact stores for compensation.
Sources
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1.
WBNS: Trader Joe's Frozen Chicken Fried Rice Recalled Over Glass Contamination: Details the recall trigger, the 3.4 million‑pound scope, product lines, U.S. and Canada distribution, packaging identifiers, and advises disposal or return, noting no injuries
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2.
King5: Trader Joe’s Frozen Chicken Fried Rice Recalled Over Glass Contamination: Mirrors WBNS information, emphasizing USDA FSIS data, the two product varieties, geographic split, label specifics, and consumer safety guidance, also reporting no injuries
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Timeline
Early Feb 2026 – Customers discover glass fragments in frozen chicken fried rice purchased at Trader Joe’s and report the contamination to the retailer and USDA officials, triggering an investigation [1][2].
Feb 20, 2026 – The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service announces a recall of roughly 3.4 million lb of frozen chicken fried rice after confirming glass contamination, marking the largest recall of this product line to date [1][2].
Feb 20, 2026 – The recall targets two specific SKUs: “Ajinomoto Yakitori Chicken with Japanese‑Style Fried Rice,” sold only in Canada, and “Trader Joe’s Chicken Fried Rice,” distributed nationwide in the United States, each bearing USDA establishment P‑18356 and best‑by dates ranging from Sept 8 to Nov 17, 2026 [1][2].
Feb 20, 2026 – FSIS states that no injuries have been reported but urges consumers to “discard or return” the affected packages and to seek medical care if they feel harmed [1][2].
2026 onward – Consumers are expected to return the recalled items for refunds, though retailers have not clarified refund procedures, and the products remain off shelves while the recall is processed [1][2].