Consumers across the nation are facing heightened alerts as several food products have been recalled due to serious health concerns. Recently, Hammond’s Candies announced a recall of their popular Dark Chocolate Filled Mini Waffle Cones after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) flagged potential allergen risks.
The FDA, which made the announcement on October 3, 2024, explained the situation stemmed from consumer reports indicating allergic reactions to the chocolate cones, which may contain undeclared milk proteins. "The recall was initiated after the firm received one consumer report of an allergic reaction experienced after consuming the product," the FDA clarified on their official website. This recall affects 4-ounce bags sold across 39 states, including Washington, D.C., as well as online through Hammond’s website and Amazon.
Consumers can identify the recalled products by finding the Universal Product Code (UPC) 6 91355 90513 5 on the packaging. They should also look for the item number FC23212 and be cautious of bags marked with the specific Use By dates of 03/20/2025 or 05/20/2025. For those holding these products, returning them to the store for a full refund is recommended. The company has set up customer service assistance for inquiries at 1-888-226-3999, available Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM MST.
This chocolate recall is just one of several recent food safety alerts. Across the Atlantic, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has issued warnings affecting supermarkets like Tesco, Spar, and Supervalu. The alerts are due to allergen contamination and potential bacterial threats identified in various food items, including popular snacks and cheese products. Customers are urged to heed these warnings to avoid potential health risks.
Among the specific recalls, Tesco’s Creamy Chicken Bakes have been flagged due to contamination with peanuts, which could pose serious risks for those allergic to nuts. Shoppers are warned to check for the approval number IE 761 EC and the best-before date of 31/01/2026 on these frozen bakes.
Another significant concern is the risk of Listeria monocytogenes found in batches of Horgans Irish Smoked Cheddar. The FSAI highlighted the seriousness of such infections, stating, "Symptoms of Listeria monocytogenes infection can include mild flu-like symptoms, or gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea." They also pointed out the potential severity for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and the elderly.
Indeed, many of the recent recalls by the FSAI include batches of smoked salmon and cheese products. The Burren Smokehouse Organic Hot Smoked Salmon was also involved, with consumers advised to look at health alerts for specific batch details.
Boundless Sour Cream and Onion Flavour Chips, meanwhile, have faced recalls because undeclared milk was found, making them unsafe for consumers with dairy allergies. The FSAI is actively monitoring the situation, advising those who may have purchased these products to consult with their health professionals.
Consumers are reminded to stay vigilant with food purchases, especially when it involves known allergens. The food industry places stringent labeling requirements on products to protect consumers, and these recalls serve as harsh reminders of the importance of safety standards. Whether it’s the delightful treat of chocolate-filled cones or the everyday convenience of frozen chicken bakes, consumers must regularly check product labels and remain informed about recalls.
The swift action by both the FDA and the FSAI emphasizes food safety as top priority. People should be proactive—if there’s any doubt about the products they’ve bought, checking for the latest recall information online or with their retailers can prevent health risks and harmful allergic reactions.
For more detailed information, people can refer to respective authority websites where full lists of recalled products are often available, along with consumer advice on managing these recalls effectively.