The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated the recall of certain Cal Yee Farms chocolate products to a Class 1, the highest risk level, due to undeclared milk. This follows an initial recall issued on December 12th for various chocolate and yogurt-covered items, including dark chocolate walnuts, yogurt-coated almonds, and butter toffee. The initial recall was prompted by potential contamination with undeclared milk, soy, wheat, sesame, FD&C #6 (a food coloring), and almonds, posing a significant allergy risk.
The expanded recall specifically targets Cal Yee Farms’ dark chocolate walnuts, dark chocolate almonds, and dark chocolate apricots. The FDA designates a Class 1 recall when there is a “reasonable probability” that consuming the product could lead to serious health consequences or even death. This classification underscores the severity of the undeclared milk allergen for individuals with milk allergies. The initial recall covered distribution in California, Arizona, Virginia, New Mexico, Texas, Tennessee, Oregon, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
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According to the FDA’s Enforcement Report from the week of January 29th, the presence of undeclared milk in these chocolate products triggered the elevated risk classification. The FDA utilizes a three-tiered classification system (Class I, II, and III) to categorize the level of health hazard associated with recalled products. Class I represents the most serious risk.
Cal Yee Farms initially attributed the recall to findings from an FDA inspection of their facility. Their initial announcement emphasized the potential for severe or life-threatening allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to milk, soy, wheat, sesame, FD&C #6, or almonds. At that time, no illnesses had been reported. Cal Yee Farms has not yet responded to requests for comment on the elevated recall level.
This heightened recall follows a similar FDA action regarding Lay’s potato chips. On January 27th, the FDA upgraded Lay’s voluntary recall from December to a Class 1 due to undeclared milk in over 6,000 bags of 13 oz. Lay’s Classic Potato Chips sold in Oregon and Washington. This highlights a recent trend of undeclared allergens prompting high-level recalls in the food industry.
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The FDA’s recent actions emphasize the importance of accurate labeling and allergen management in food production. Consumers with milk allergies should remain vigilant in checking product labels and heed recall notices to avoid potential health risks. The FDA continues to monitor and enforce food safety regulations to protect public health.
