FDA WARNING_LETTER - SCT Corporation - May 10, 2011

The FDA conducted an inspection of SCT Corporation, dba Jeppi Nut Company, a manufacturer, packager, and repacker of products including peanuts, popcorn, and nut mixes, from April 26 to May 10, 2011. The inspection revealed several labeling violations causing products to be misbranded under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

Specifically, "Jeppi Nut Company Salted Roasted Peanuts in the shell," "JEPPI GOURMET POPCORN," and "JEPPI Nut Company Pistachios" were misbranded because their labels failed to declare trans fat on the nutrition facts panel, violating 21 CFR 101.9(c)(2)(ii). Additionally, the firm used a single ingredient statement for both red and natural pistachio products, which is not permitted, violating section 403(i)(2) of the Act and 21 CFR 101.4(a)(l). The FDA also noted that the firm's labels for "Salted Roasted Peanuts" and "Pistachios" contained intervening material, such as "Maryland's Peanut King Since 1884" and "May Contains Peanuts Traces," between required label elements, contrary to 21 CFR 101.2(e).

The inspection also identified a Form FDA 483 observation regarding inadequate measures to exclude pests and prevent food contamination. While the firm