Major chocolate recall sweeps U.S stores — here’s why your favorite sweet treat might be unsafe

Weaver Nut Company is recalling certain semi-sweet chocolate nonpareils distributed throughout the United States. If you recently purchased semi-sweet chocolate nonpareils from a grocery or retail store, you should double-check the lot number.

Major chocolate recall sweeps U.S. stores:

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced in a news release on Wednesday that Weaver Nut Company was recalling its semi-sweet chocolate nonpareils with white or Christmas-colored seeds, with particular lot codes, due to possible unreported milk allergies, as per a report by Newsweek.

Although no illnesses have been reported, people who are allergic to milk face a serious risk. The chocolates were sold through supermarkets and retail stores throughout the United States.


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Why is your favourite sweet treat unsafe?

According to the FDA's release, the problem was discovered after a wholesale customer complained about differences in product specifications.

The chocolates were labelled as being free of milk, but later laboratory testing revealed that they did contain milk proteins, it added.

It further stated that consuming the affected items could result in severe or fatal allergic reactions for people with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity. One of the top nine allergens that the FDA requires to be declared is milk, and improper labelling can be very risky.

Why is this recall important?

According to the Pennsylvania-based Weaver Nut Company, the recall is a preventative step to protect the public's health. The business is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of its products.

Which chocolates are affected?

Customers are advised to verify product lot codes and return or dispose of any impacted items. Throw away the items or return them to the store for a complete refund.

Lot numbers 204206, 204207, 204208, 204209, 204212, 224225 are for Item 47518-Nonpareil, Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Christmas Seeds).

Lot numbers 204214-RL, 204214, 204215, 224221, 224222, 224223, 135215, 135216, 135217, 135220, 135221, 145204, 145205-1, 145207-1, and 145210-1 are for Item D2645, Nonpareils, Semi-Sweet Chocolate (White Seeds), as per a report by Newsweek.

FAQs

What do I do if I have these chocolates?
Check the lot number, and if it is recalled, do not eat it. Return it for a refund or dispose of it.

Why is the recall so serious?
Milk is a major allergen, and consuming it when allergic can result in serious or life-threatening reactions.