Every year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issues warnings about foods that may pose health risks. In some cases, these products have already been widely distributed. When that happens, the danger multiplies.
This time, the warning comes from chocolate. Specifically, from some chocolate-covered candies that have been sold in grocery stores across the country. The reason is serious: presence of undeclared milk on the label.
These are the chocolates recalled for containing undeclared milk
Weaver Nut Company announced the recall of several batches of semisweet chocolate candies. The reason is the possible presence of milk proteins not indicated on the packaging. This poses a serious risk for allergic individuals.
The warning was published by the FDA on Wednesday and the company acknowledged that it was after a complaint from a wholesale customer. As a result of that notification, laboratory tests were conducted and the analyses confirmed the presence of the milk allergen in products that were sold as milk-free.
Allergic reactions from consuming these types of ingredients can be severe, in some cases, even fatal. The affected items were sold in supermarket chains throughout the United States. They include two types: one with holiday-colored seeds and another with white seeds, all with specific batch codes.
Which products are affected and what should consumers do
The recalled products are item 47518 with batches such as 204206 and 224225, also item D2645, whose batches include numbers like 204214 and 145210-1. The details are published by the FDA and consumers with milk allergies should not consume them under any circumstances.
They also shouldn't offer them to people with dairy sensitivities, as it is recommended to discard the product or return it to the store. Weaver Nut Company has confirmed that a refund will be issued even if the package is open. The goal is to minimize any risk of exposure to the allergen and the company states that it has taken additional safety measures.
For now, no cases of illness have been reported, but the company and the FDA are continuing to investigate. For more information, you can contact Chris Westerhoff, customer service manager.