Altria investigating if recalled tobacco products were tampered with

REUTERS: Altria Group Inc said on Friday it was working with authorities to investigate if the smokeless tobacco products it recalled earlier this week were tampered with.

The company said on Tuesday it recalled some smokeless tobacco

 products after eight consumers complained that they found some

 sharp metal objects in certain cans.

The recall involved certain cans made in the company's Franklin Park, Illinois, facility.
"We believe this was a deliberate, malicious act by an individual or individuals familiar
 with the quality and safety procedures at its Franklin Park, IL facility", Altria said
 in a e-mailed statement.

The company said it was retrieving recalled product from wholesale, retail and 

individual consumers.

A majority of U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company's cans made at a separate 

the facility was not affected by the recall, Altria said.

                                                                            Reporting By (Anonymous)