FDA Elevates Chocolate Almonds Recall Due to Undeclared Allergen Risk

A recall of dark chocolate almonds has been elevated to a higher risk level due to potential contamination with an undeclared allergen. Initially issued in June by grocery chain Meijer, the recall concerns packages of Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds that may contain dark chocolate cashews, an ingredient not declared on the packaging. This poses a significant risk for individuals with cashew allergies, who could suffer life-threatening reactions if they consume the product.

On Thursday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) upgraded the recall to a Class II level, indicating a situation where the use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. The probability of serious adverse health consequences is considered remote, according to the FDA.

Details of the Recall

The recall affects two different packages of Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds. The black stand-up pouches have sell-by dates of 05/07/2026 or 05/28/2026, while the 8-count, 1.5-ounce multi-pack boxes have a sell-by date of 05/05/2026. These products were sold at Meijer stores across Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Although no illnesses have been reported, customers are urged to return any purchased packages to Meijer for a full refund.

Broader Context of Food Recalls

This development follows a series of recent food recalls in the United States due to contamination concerns. For instance, Kraft Heinz Foods Company recently recalled 367,812 pounds of fully cooked turkey bacon after laboratory tests indicated possible adulteration with Listeria monocytogenes, a disease-causing bacterium. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service shared this notice on Wednesday.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), listeria is a “bacteria that can contaminate many foods.” Symptoms vary, but listeria infection “can cause invasive illness and intestinal illness.”

In another case, Alma Pak International LLC voluntarily recalled 400 boxes of organic blueberries last month after they tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. On Tuesday, the FDA elevated this recall to a Class I level, the highest risk category, where there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.

Rising Trends in Food Recalls

The move represents a concerning trend in food safety. Over the past two years, there has been an unexplained rise in food recalls. In 2024 alone, approximately 300 food recalls were issued, linked to nearly 1,400 illnesses, according to a report by the Public Interest Research Group. Out of these cases, 487 individuals required hospitalization, and 19 people died. While these numbers are relatively low compared to the entire U.S. population, they represent a doubling of hospitalizations and deaths from foodborne illnesses compared to 2023.

Last year, the number of food recalls and associated illnesses doubled compared to 2023, highlighting a growing concern in food safety.

Implications and Future Outlook

The elevation of the chocolate almonds recall to a higher risk level underscores the importance of accurate labeling and vigilant food safety practices. As food recalls continue to rise, regulatory bodies and companies must enhance their monitoring and quality control measures to protect consumers. The FDA’s actions serve as a reminder of the critical role that transparency and accountability play in maintaining public health.

Moving forward, consumers are advised to stay informed about recalls and to check product labels carefully. As the food industry grapples with these challenges, the hope is that increased awareness and improved safety protocols will reduce the incidence of such recalls and protect public health more effectively.