Chocolate Recall: Products May Contain Undeclared Allergens

A company is recalling certain chocolate products that may contain an undeclared allergen. This may be problematic for those who are allergic to it.

The problem with the recalled Heirloom Mint Meltaways from Oregon-based Cranberry Sweets & More stemmed from a mislabeling issue, according to the announcement on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website.

Specifically, certain Peanut Butter Meltaways products were mistakenly labeled as Heirloom Mint Meltaways, which does not declare the presence of peanuts on the label. This could be a problem for those with peanut allergies who happen to eat the product, as they may risk getting a "serious or life-threatening" allergic reaction.

Peanuts, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), are among the food allergens most associated with anaphylaxis, which is a sudden and "life-threatening" response to an allergen that affects the entire body. This is said to be "the most severe" allergic reaction to peanuts.

And with peanut being one of the eight most common allergens, foods that have it as one of the ingredients are required to include it "in clear language" on the ingredients label, as per the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004.

"The firm's subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's packaging process," the company noted. "The process has been corrected and the company has instituted additional safety checks and corrective actions."

So far, there have been no reports of illnesses related to the recalled product.

As mentioned, the recall affects the company's Mint Meltaways product. These came in 4 ounces and 8 ounces and were packed in clear cellophane bags. They don't have a UPC code but can be identified by the Lot number 032123, which can be found at the bottom of the bag.

The recalled products were distributed to retail stores in Oregon and Washington, but they were also sold nationwide through mail orders.

Consumers with a peanut allergy who find that they are in possession of a recalled product are being advised not to eat it. Instead, they may take it back to where they bought it to get a refund.

Those who have questions may call the company at 1-800-527-5748.