The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated a recall of certain chocolate products to a Class 1 classification, the highest risk level, due to concerns that consumption could lead to severe health complications or even death. The recall pertains to three products from Cal Yee Farm: Dark Chocolate Almonds, Dark Chocolate Apricots, and Dark Chocolate Walnuts. The products were found to contain undeclared milk, a potential allergen that could cause serious health issues for individuals with milk allergies.
Symptoms of a milk allergy can range from hives, cramps, and dizziness to swollen vocal cords and unconsciousness, and in extreme cases, it can be fatal. The FDA issued this update on January 22, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
Cal Yee Farm had previously issued an allergy alert in December, recalling several of its chocolate and yogurt-covered products. These products were sold on the company’s website and in various states including Arizona, California, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. The recall included a variety of products such as Dark Chocolate Walnuts, Dark Chocolate Raisins, Dark Chocolate Almonds, Yogurt Coated Almonds, Dark Chocolate Apricots, Tropical Trail Mix, and Butter Toffee.
In addition to these, Cal Yee Farm also recalled its Almonds, Mango with Chili, Hot Cajun Sesame Sticks, New Orleans Hot Mix, and fruit baskets. The December recall alert warned that these products may contain undeclared milk, soy, wheat, sesame, almonds, and FD&C #6, a food dye. Consumers with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients could potentially experience life-threatening allergic reactions after consuming the products.
The recall was initiated after an FDA inspection of Cal Yee Farm’s facility revealed that products containing potential allergens were distributed in packaging that did not disclose the presence of milk, soy, wheat, sesame, almonds, and FD&C #6. The company has since addressed the labeling issue for future products.
Cal Yee Farm stated on its website, “We did a voluntary recall on undeclared milk, soy, wheat, sesame, FD&C #6 and almonds in snack products, due to outdated labels which did not specify allergen statement. Labels are now consistent with known allergens.” Consumers are advised to visit the FDA’s website to see the full list of recalled products and their UPC codes.