Nestlé USA has issued a voluntary recall for more than 50,000 cases of Lean Cuisine Butternut Squash Ravioli, following consumer reports of the presence of a wood-like foreign material inside the frozen meals.
The recall applies to Lean Cuisine Butternut Squash Ravioli products sold in 37 states, with a total of 50,611 cases removed from distribution. The affected ravioli were packaged in 9 7/8-ounce plastic trays sealed with film and housed in a paperboard carton.
The product has the number 12049225 and the UPC 013800144065. Recalled batches include codes 4261595912 to 5038595912, with best-by dates ranging from October 2025 to March 2026.
Why It Matters
While no widespread health issues have been reported, Nestlé confirmed that one consumer had a possible choking incident, which prompted the recall. The presence of any foreign object in food products endangers consumer safety, especially when the material can cause physical harm if consumed.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified the recall as Class II, indicating a remote risk of serious health consequences. Nestlé stated that the problem is isolated and being investigated, and that the company is fully cooperating with both the FDA and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).
What to Know
The affected products were distributed from September 2024 to March 2025. In addition to the Butternut Squash Ravioli, the recall includes select batches of Lean Cuisine Spinach Artichoke Ravioli, Lean Cuisine Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry, and STOUFFER’S Party Size Chicken Lasagna. These items were sold at major retailers across the country, including California, Texas, New York, and Florida.
Consumers are advised not to consume the recalled items. Instead, they should return them to the retailer where purchased for a refund or replacement. Additional assistance is available through Nestlé USA’s consumer line at (800) 681-1676, available weekdays between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST.
What People Are Saying
Nestlé said in its recall: “We are actively investigating the source of the wood-like material. We are confident that this is an isolated issue, and we have taken action to address it.”
“The quality, safety, and integrity of our products remain our top priority. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this action may cause to both our consumers and retail customers.
When Newsweek contacted Nestlé for comment, they were directed to an existing press release stating that the recall is “isolated to a limited quantity of batches.”
“We are taking this action after consumers contacted Nestlé USA about this issue, including one potential choking incident to date,” a Nestlé spokeswoman stated.
What Happens Next
Nestlé is still investigating how the wood-like material entered the production line, but it is confident the contamination has been contained. The recall began on March 17, 2025, and is still ongoing.
The company has promised transparency and accountability as it collaborates with federal officials to complete the process. No end date for the recall has been announced.
