Chocolate Recall Hits Highest Risk Level Due To Undeclared Milk
Here’s what consumers need to know.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has upgraded a recent chocolate recall to the highest risk level, known as Class 1. This classification indicates a significant threat to consumer health, with potential consequences ranging from serious adverse health effects to death. The recall affects three products from Cal Yee Farm: Dark Chocolate Almonds, Dark Chocolate Apricots, and Dark Chocolate Walnuts. The issue stems from the presence of undeclared milk in these products, which poses a severe risk for individuals with milk allergies.
Understanding Class 1 Recalls
A Class 1 recall is the most critical type of food recall recognized by the FDA. It is defined as a situation where there is a reasonable probability that exposure to or use of a violative product will lead to serious health consequences or even death. This classification underscores the urgency and seriousness of the situation surrounding Cal Yee Farm's products.
The FDA's investigation revealed that these chocolate items contained undeclared allergens including milk, wheat, sesame, soy, and coloring agent Yellow 6. These undeclared substances can trigger severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. For example, approximately 4.9 million Americans suffer from milk allergies, making it one of the most common food allergies among children.
The Recall Details
The recall was first initiated on December 12, 2024, when Cal Yee Farm urged customers across nine states — Arizona, California, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia—to return their chocolate snacks. The affected products were sold online as well as in retail locations across these states.
In addition to the three chocolate items now classified under Class 1 status, other recalled products include Yogurt Coated Almonds and Dark Chocolate Raisins among others. These items were packaged in clear plastic zipper pouches featuring bright yellow labels that should have indicated allergen information but did not due to outdated labeling practices.
Company Response and Consumer Safety Measures
Cal Yee Farm has acknowledged the issue on their website and has committed to improving their labeling practices moving forward. They stated that they are taking this matter seriously and are working diligently to ensure that all labels are consistent with known allergens.
Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products are advised to either dispose of them or return them for a full refund. As of now, no illnesses related to this recall have been reported; however, officials continue to stress the importance of consumer awareness regarding food allergens.
