The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has assigned its highest-risk classification to a nationwide recall of semi-sweet chocolate nonpareils produced by Weaver Nut Company, Inc. The Pennsylvania-based company issued the voluntary recall on June 17 due to the potential for undeclared milk, a major food allergen.
On July 8, the FDA designated the action a Class I recall, which applies to situations where there is a “reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.” Individuals with an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk could face a serious or life-threatening reaction, such as anaphylaxis, if they consume the affected products.
The recall was initiated after a wholesale customer filed a complaint regarding product specification discrepancies. Subsequent laboratory testing confirmed the presence of milk in chocolates that were labeled as milk-free.
The recalled products were distributed to various retail and grocery stores throughout the U.S. and include:
- Nonpareil, Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Christmas Seeds): Item number 47518; Lot numbers: 204206, 204207, 204208, 204209, 204212, 224225
- Nonpareils, Semi-Sweet Chocolate (White Seeds): Item number D2645; Lot numbers: 204214-RL, 204214, 204215, 224221, 224222, 224223, 135215, 135216, 135217, 135220, 135221, 145204, 145205-1, 145207-1, 145210-1
As of the recall announcement, no illnesses have been reported. Weaver Nut Company stated it is “working with the FDA and is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of its products.”
The recall is listed as ongoing. Consumers with a milk allergy who purchased the affected nonpareils are urged to discard them immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
