News Feature | April 23, 2014

Hickory Farms And Whole Foods Issue Product Recalls

By Laurel Maloy, contributing writer, Food Online

Hickory Farms Whole Foods Product Recalls

Class I recalls for undeclared allergens, meaning potential for serious injury or death, prompt both companies to withdraw products

Whole Foods, Southwest Region, has announced the voluntary recall after one illness was reported, the result of undeclared eggs in its mini butter croissants. Distributed to 26 Whole Foods stores in AR, LA, OK, and TX, the six-pack plastic containers bear the UPC Code: 2 28719-00499-1.

The mislabeled product can also be identified with the “best by” date of April 21 to April 23. Whole Foods has posted signage in the affected stores in an effort to protect consumers from serious allergic reactions. Customers who have purchased this product are advised to discard it and to bring in the receipt for a full refund. Customers with questions may call 512-477-5566, ext. 20060, Mon through Fri, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CDT.

Is your company prepared for a recall?

Hickory Farms, a specialty food retailer, also announced a Class I voluntary recall due to undeclared milk in its Chipotle Ranch Sauce. Milk is a known allergen and can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. Hickory Farms has not reported any illness or injury due to this mislabeling, but is recalling the entire lot as a cautionary measure. Sold throughout Hickory Farms’ stores and kiosks nationwide, as well as online, the identifying information is printed above the back label. The “Best if Used by” date of “February 08, 2015, and earlier” is printed on nine-ounce bottles of Hickory Farmstand Recipe Chipotle Ranch Sauce. Consumers with questions or seeking a full refund can call the Hickory Farms Consumer Line at 1-800-762-5558 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Mon through Fri EST.

Recalls are classified by the FDA and may be voluntarily activated by the company, at the request of the FDA, or by the FDA under statutory authority:

  • Class I recall: a reasonable possibility exists for serious adverse health consequences upon exposure or consumption
  • Class II recall: a possibility of temporary or medically reversible harmful health concerns; serious health risks are remote
  • Class III recall: exposure or consumption is not likely to cause adverse health effects