Halloween Candy Sold at TJ Maxx and Marshalls Recalled Over Undeclared Milk
If you've already started stocking up on Halloween candy, there's one spooky treat to check before October rolls around.
Crystal Temptations is recalling its Halloween Chocolatey Eyeballs because the candy contains undeclared milk. The Halloween candy recall covers several package sizes sold at TJ Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, and Sierra stores in 13 states.
No illnesses have been reported so far, but people with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity could experience a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they eat the candy. Here's what to look for in your Halloween stash.
Which Halloween Candy Is Being Recalled?
The Crystal Temptations recall involves Chocolatey Eyeballs sold in five different packages.
Check your candy for these identifying numbers:
54040-CHEY: 10-ounce plastic bag with a designed header card
54077-CHEY: 7-ounce acrylic box with a designed paper wrap
58008-CHEY: 10.5-ounce round plastic jar
58089-CHEY: 16-ounce designer plastic pouch bag
54083-CHEY: 11-ounce plastic bag tied with a tag
In its recall summary, the FDA also identifies Little Temptations as the brand name, so the style number may be the easiest way to determine whether you have one of the affected packages.
Where Was the Recalled Halloween Candy Sold?
The recalled Halloween candy was distributed through TJ Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, and Sierra stores in 13 states:
Arizona
California
Connecticut
Georgia
Indiana
Massachusetts
Nevada
New Jersey
North Carolina
Ohio
Texas
Virginia
Wyoming
If you bought Chocolatey Eyeballs from one of these retailers, take a minute to check the package before putting them in the candy bowl.
Why Are the Chocolatey Eyeballs Being Recalled?
The problem isn't something shoppers would necessarily spot by looking at the candy.
According to the FDA notice, a TJX analyst discovered that the Chocolatey Eyeballs contained whey, which comes from milk, but the packaging didn't disclose the presence of milk. Crystal Temptations says an investigation traced the problem to a temporary breakdown in its production and packaging processes.
That missing information matters for anyone with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity. Milk is one of the major food allergens in the U.S., and eating a product containing milk without realizing it's there could lead to a serious allergic reaction.
Have Any Illnesses Been Reported?
Fortunately, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this candy recall. Still, anyone with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity should avoid eating the affected Chocolatey Eyeballs.
An allergic reaction to milk can vary from person to person, and severe reactions can be life-threatening.
What Should You Do With the Recalled Candy?
If you have one of the affected packages, don't serve it, hand it out for Halloween, or eat it.
Crystal Temptations is telling consumers to destroy the product. There's also an important detail if you're hoping for a refund. Refunds aren't available at the stores where the candy was purchased.
Instead, you need to contact Crystal Temptations directly and provide proof of purchase. The company can be reached at 201-246-7990, Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm, Eastern Time.
Check Your Halloween Stash
Halloween may still be weeks away, which means some of this candy could be tucked away in your cupboard already as you prepare for your trick-or-treaters.
If you've already picked up Chocolatey Eyeballs from TJ Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, or Sierra, check those identifying numbers before they make their way to your candy bowl.
A quick look at the package now could keep this particular Halloween surprise from becoming scarier than you intended it to be.
Curious for more stories that keep you informed and entertained? From the latest headlines to everyday insights, YourLifeBuzz has more to explore. Dive into what’s next.