The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated a nationwide chocolate recall to its most severe Class I risk warning, citing potential life-threatening allergic reactions due to undeclared milk in certain products.
Why This Recall Is Critical
On July 8, the FDA classified Weaver Nut Company, Inc.’s voluntary recall of semi-sweet chocolate nonpareils as Class I—reserved for situations where consumption poses a “reasonable probability of serious adverse health consequences or death.”
The recall, initially announced on June 17, affects multiple batches of two products:
- Nonpareil, Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Christmas Seeds) – Item #47518 (Lot #s: 204206-204212, 224225)
- Nonpareils, Semi-Sweet Chocolate (White Seeds) – Item #D2645 (Lot #s: 204214-224223, 135215-145210-1)
Distributed nationwide, these chocolates were sold in retail and grocery stores but failed to disclose milk—a top allergen—on their labels.
Allergy Risks: From Hives to Anaphylaxis
Milk allergies can trigger reactions ranging from mild (hives, swelling) to severe (anaphylaxis, respiratory failure). The FDA warns that accidental ingestion by allergic individuals could be life-threatening.
How the Contamination Was Discovered
A wholesale customer’s complaint prompted lab tests, confirming milk traces in products marketed as milk-free. No illnesses have been reported yet.
What Consumers Should Do
- Discard or return affected products for a full refund.
- Check labels for allergen warnings—federal law mandates disclosure of major allergens like milk, eggs, peanuts, and sesame.
Industry and Expert Reactions
- Weaver Nut Company stated it’s collaborating with the FDA to ensure product safety.
- Dr. Sebastian Lighvani (NY Allergy & Asthma) notes U.S. food anaphylaxis cases have surged 300–400% in recent decades, with allergic ER visits every 3 minutes.
Ongoing Recall Status
The FDA lists this as an active recall. Consumers with milk allergies should avoid these products immediately.
Final Note:
This recall follows other recent FDA alerts, including cucumbers (salmonella risk) and Ritz crackers (undeclared peanuts), underscoring the importance of allergen transparency in food safety.