Check Your Pantries For These Cookies Recalled Over 'Life-Threatening' Allergy Risk

A company is recalling certain cookie products because they may contain undeclared peanuts. This could cause a potentially "life-threatening" reaction in people allergic to them.

The recall affects certain Hammond's Candies' "Hammond's Salted Caramel Cookies," according to the announcement on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) website. The Denver, Colorado-based company issued the recall after discovering, during a routine check, that a product with peanuts was packed and also distributed in "incorrect packaging,"

"Further investigation has determined the root cause to be a temporary failure of the manufacturer's packing and product release process," the announcement noted.

The packaging it was mistakenly placed in did not note the presence of peanuts in the product. As such, someone with a peanut allergy or sensitivity may consume it and "run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction."

A peanut allergy is among the most common food allergies in children in the U.S., according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI). Not only that, but peanuts are also among the food allergens that are most commonly linked to anaphylaxis, which is a "life-threatening whole-body response to an allergen."

This is why those with a peanut allergy are being advised to be extra careful about the food that they eat, especially since peanut and peanut products are a common ingredient in many food items. In restaurants, for instance, some dishes may actually have peanut butter as one of the ingredients, so it's best to ask the staff about possible allergens.

As for the current recall, there have been no reports of illnesses related to the problem with the product.

The recall affects the Hammond's Salted Caramel Cookies that have the UPC -6 91355 89889 5 and the Item Number CK15008. The affected products have the Best By code of 6/29/2023A, and were distributed in 5-ounce packages in retail stores nationwide as well as via mail order.

Those who find that they are in possession of the recalled product are advised to take them back to the place from where they bought it in order to get a full refund. Those with questions about the recall may contact the company at 1-888-226-3999.