The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has recently issued an urgent recall of Hammond’s Candies Dark Chocolate Filled Mini Waffle Cones due to the presence of an undeclared milk allergen. This poses a significant risk for individuals who suffer from milk allergies or are lactose intolerant. The recall specifically affects the dark chocolate variety of the waffle cones, which are sold in 4-ounce resealable bags.
Details of the Affected Products
The impacted Hammond’s Candies products carry the UPC code 6 91355 90513 5 and the item number FC23212. If you have purchased a product with these identifiers, you are urged to stop consuming it immediately. The use-by dates for the affected batches are 03/20/2025 and 05/20/2025, and the product code is LN0525453.
This recall has been initiated following a report of a consumer experiencing an allergic reaction due to the undisclosed presence of milk proteins in the product. Testing confirmed that the recalled waffle cones contained milk, which was not listed on the packaging.
States Impacted by the Recall
The recall is far-reaching, affecting 38 U.S. states, making it one of the most significant food recalls in 2024. States where the product was distributed include:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Oregon
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
- Washington, D.C.
These products were available both in-store and online through platforms like Amazon and the Hammond’s Candies website.
Health Risks Associated with Undeclared Allergens
Undeclared allergens, such as milk, can cause severe reactions in individuals with allergies. Milk allergies, in particular, can trigger a range of symptoms, including:
- Swelling of the face, lips, and throat
- Hives or skin rash
- Breathing difficulties, such as wheezing
- Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention
According to the Mayo Clinic, about 33 million Americans are affected by food allergens, and milk is one of the most common culprits. Milk allergies are different from lactose intolerance, as the former involves an immune response to milk proteins, while the latter is the body’s inability to digest lactose.
Why Recalls of This Nature Are Common
The FDA frequently initiates recalls when allergens are not properly declared on packaging. Mislabeling products with undeclared allergens like milk, peanuts, or gluten can be life-threatening for consumers. Accurate labeling is crucial for people with allergies to make informed decisions about what they consume.
In Hammond’s case, it remains unclear how the milk allergen was introduced into the product. However, testing on the consumer’s bag detected the presence of milk proteins, leading to this voluntary recall.
What to Do if You Have Purchased the Recalled Product
If you have purchased Hammond’s Dark Chocolate Filled Mini Waffle Cones, check the UPC code, item number, and use-by date on the packaging. If your product matches the recalled batch, it is advised that you:
- Stop consuming the product immediately
- Return it to the retailer where it was purchased for a full refund
- Contact Hammond’s Candies customer service at 1-888-226-3999 or 303-333-5588 (extension 180) for assistance. The customer service team is available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (MST).
How Consumers Can Protect Themselves
To avoid potential allergic reactions, it’s vital for consumers to always read product labels thoroughly. While the FDA and manufacturers work hard to ensure accuracy in labeling, recalls like this demonstrate that errors can still occur. Consumers with known allergies should remain vigilant and check for any recall announcements from the FDA.
The Importance of Food Allergy Awareness
Food allergies are on the rise, particularly in children. Experts suggest that early exposure to allergens may reduce the likelihood of developing food allergies later in life. However, for those who already have food allergies, incidents like this recall highlight the importance of food safety and proper labeling practices.
In recent years, there has been growing awareness about the prevalence of food allergies and the life-altering effects they can have on individuals and families. For manufacturers, the focus on proper allergen disclosure is critical to protect consumers. At the same time, consumers need to stay informed and take steps to avoid potential hazards.
Conclusion
The recall of Hammond’s Dark Chocolate Filled Mini Waffle Cones due to undeclared milk allergens serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate food labeling. Consumers with allergies must be especially cautious, and companies must uphold stringent quality control standards. If you or someone you know is allergic to milk and has purchased the affected product, take immediate action by stopping consumption and seeking a refund.