The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced Wednesday that a pancake and berry snack pack had been recalled in 13 states.
The FDA discovered that the label on Naturipe’s “Berry Buddies, Berries & Pancakes” snack packs did not list wheat and egg as ingredients.
Why It Matters
People with celiac disease or allergies to wheat or eggs are at risk of “serious allergic reactions if they consume these products,” according to the FDA’s alert.
There have been no reports of illnesses or adverse reactions associated with the recalled product.
On Wednesday night, Newsweek sent an email to Naturipe requesting additional comment.
What to Know
The 60-gram boxes of pancake snacks, which included mini pancakes, berries, and Canadian maple syrup, were distributed to Kroger and Meijer stores in Arkansas, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, Minnesota, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Mississippi, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
According to the FDA alert, the product is packaged in pink and purple plastic with the lot number 1097901 on top.
It is typically found in the refrigerated produce or deli departments and has an expiration date of February 25, 2025.
An investigation into the mislabeled product revealed that the problem was caused by a “label changeover failure,” which has been resolved.
The FDA has identified several major food allergens, including eggs, sesame, soybeans, fish, milk, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts, and crustacean shellfish.
What People Are Saying
The FDA advised, in its recall alert: “Customers with a wheat or egg allergy or sensitivity who have purchased the affected product are urged not to consume the product and dispose of it or return it to their place of purchase for a full refund.”
Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86, a food industry blog, said: “Proper food labeling is about more than just complying with regulations; it is also about protecting consumers. When allergens are not listed, people with severe allergies are at serious risk. This recall serves as a strong reminder to food manufacturers to strengthen their labeling processes, improve quality control, and ensure that all products are accurately labeled in order to protect public health.”
The FDA also said on its website this month, in part: “Millions of Americans and their families suffer from food allergies and other types of hypersensitivity. Food allergies develop when the immune system reacts to specific proteins in food. Food allergies range in severity from mild symptoms such as hives and lip swelling to severe, life-threatening symptoms known as anaphylaxis, which can cause fatal respiratory problems and shock.”
What Happens Next
Customers with additional questions on the recall can call Naturipe Value Added Fresh LLC at 1-239-598-6045 or email info@naturipefarms.com.
