5 million pounds of chicken recalled due to metal parts

Hormel has recalled nearly 5 million pounds of frozen chicken, according to a statement from the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. The problem? There have been “several complaints” from customers who have found pieces of metal in their frozen chicken breasts and thighs.

The voluntary recall includes 215,258 cases, or a total of 4,874,815 pounds, of Braised Hormel Fire Chicken that was distributed to HRI Commercial Food Service locations nationwide from February 10, 2025 through September 19, 2025, according to the Minnesota-based company Pursue.

“The issue was discovered after the facility received multiple complaints from food service customers who found metal in their frozen chicken breast and chicken leg products. Hormel Foods determined that the metal came from the conveyor belt used in production,” the USDA said in a released statement on-line.

Neither Hormel nor the USDA released information about the size of the metal pieces, but FSIS said it did Fox business that they were varied and measured about 2 millimeters by 17 millimeters (0.08 in by 0.66 in).

The chicken was not sold directly to consumers in retail stores, which is good news for the average American who may be wondering whether they need to check their freezer. But the federal agency wants to spread the word because they could still be in the refrigerators of hotels, restaurants and various institutions.

There have been no reports of injuries to people who consumed the chicken. No other Hormel products are affected by this recall. Anyone who finds the recalled chicken is asked to throw it away and not allow anyone to consume it.

There have been a number of food recalls and health warnings in recent months, including several recalls for feared shrimp radioactivea reminder of Poke Over Listeria concernsand multiple pasta recalls amid a listeria outbreak that has claimed at least lives four people. There was even a recall of Celsius energy drinks already in July because some were actually filled with vodka.

Hormel has a detailed list of recalled product numbers his website. Consumers who have questions are encouraged to either contact Hormel form on the company’s website or by calling 1-800-523-4635. Consumers can also call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854).