With the holiday season upon us, consumers are focusing on festive preparations, but recent safety recalls highlight the importance of vigilance when it come to holiday products. Three recalls involving popular items, from snacks to home décor, have been announced, raising safety concerns for families during this time of year.
The United States Food Safety Inspection Service has issued a recall of Lay's Classic Potato Chips due to undeclared milk ingredients. The iconic snack, packaged in yellow bags, may pose serious health risks to individuals with milk allergies or sensitivities. If you’ve purchased 13 oz. bags marked with the "Guaranteed Fresh Date" of February 11, 2025, or the UPC number 28400 31041, check the manufacturer's code on the back. Any bag with the codes 6462307xx or 6463307xx is subject to the recall. Thankfully, popular Louisiana brand Zapp's is not part of the recall, allowing snackers to still enjoy their local favorites.
The Lay's recall emphasizes the need for consumers to be cautious, especially when indulging during holiday gatherings. Allergic reactions can be life-threatening, making it imperative for families to check their snack selections closely.
On the other side of safety concerns, Australia has announced the recall of holiday-themed candles sold at Dusk stores. These candles, which feature light-up LED lights, were identified as potentially dangerous due to non-compliance with safety standards related to button batteries. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has warned of the serious risks posed to young children who could accidentally swallow these batteries or insert them where they don't belong.
“The product does not include the required warning information,” the ACCC stated, emphasizing the sufficiency of choking hazards and severe internal burns, which could lead to death within just two hours. The affected models include the Flower Market, Fresh Evergreen, Fruit Market, and Sweet Shop candles. Consumers are being urged to stop using these products immediately.
Finally, concerns related to potential fire hazards have led to the recall of "Wireless Decorative Tree Light Controllers" produced by Mr. Christmas. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported about 44,600 units were recalled because the controllers could overheat when plugged, posing significant fire risks. Though there have been no injuries related to the controllers, Mr. Christmas has acknowledged receiving ten reports of overheating, with one leading to fire incidents.
Customers who purchased these controllers should not only stop using them immediately but also return them to the point of sale for full refunds. The products can be identified as having the brand name "Mr. Christmas" along with model numbers 39611, 39612, or 39630. You might also find similar controllers at Walmart and Cracker Barrel, shaped like peppermint candies. Meanwhile, Target versions fall under their Wondershop brand, recognized by its squared design and holiday decorations.
Leslie Hermanson, president of Mr. Christmas, reassured customers about safety, stating, "Out of an abundance of caution, we voluntarily engaged with the CPSC to recall these Light Controllers immediately upon receiving reports of incidents with them." She encouraged consumers to follow their recall policy for returns.
These safety recalls reflect the importance of consumer vigilance during the holiday season. Not only are families adding festive touches to their homes, but they must also prioritize safety when selecting products. The recalls serve as important reminders of the potential hazards associated with seemingly harmless holiday items. Questions may arise among consumers: Are we doing enough to safeguard our homes? Are manufacturers adhering to mandatory safety standards? Keep informed by checking product labels and staying updated on recall announcements, ensuring your holidays are both joyful and safe.
For those who have purchased any of the affected products, whether it be Lay's chips, Dusk candles, or Mr. Christmas light controllers, it is imperative to act swiftly. By heeding recall notices and removing dangerous items from your home, you contribute to creating a safer holiday environment for you and your loved ones.
