Major Ice Cream Recall: Breyers Mix-Up Poses Deadly Allergen Risk
Thousands of tubs of Breyers ice cream have been urgently recalled across the U.S. after a labeling error resulted in a potentially life-threatening allergen contamination. According to the FDA and the manufacturer (Unilever), select tubs labeled "Chocolate Truffle" actually contain Rocky Road, which includes almonds not listed on the packaging.
For individuals with nut allergies, consuming even small traces of almonds can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. The company and regulators are deeming this mix-up a Class II recall. In other words, it is a situation in which the product could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.
What Happened: Chocolate Truffle on the Outside, Rocky Road on the Inside
The error involves 1.5-quart (1.41 L) tubs of Breyers Chocolate Truffle. Although the packaging displays the branding for Chocolate Truffle the actual product contains ingredients from Rocky Road, which features almonds and egg whites as key ingredients.
The affected products were distributed to stores across Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, and Virginia.
What the FDA and Unilever Are Saying
Unilever emphasized that no allergic reactions have been reported at this time. However, they initiated the recall "out of an abundance of caution" after discovering the error during a routine quality check.
"The safety and quality of our products is our top priority," the company noted in a release. "Consumers who have purchased the affected product should not consume it and are urged to contact Unilever for a replacement coupon."
Why This Matters for Allergy Sufferers
For millions of Americans with tree nut allergies, exposure to almonds can be hazardous. Reactions can range from mild itching or hives to anaphylaxis. This potentially fatal condition can cause throat swelling, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness.
Undeclared allergens remain one of the most common causes of food recalls in the United States.
Experts recommend that consumers with food allergies always double-check the packaging. Even so, in this case, that precaution would not have been enough.
What to Do If You Purchased the Affected Ice Cream
If you've purchased a tub of Breyers Chocolate Truffle recently, especially from one of the affected states, check the following:
UPC: 077567254245
Expiration date: JAN3026GH
Size: 1.5 quarts (1.41 L)
Brand: Breyers
Flavor listed: Chocolate Truffle
Actual contents: Rocky Road
You can return the product to the store where you purchased it or contact Unilever's customer service at 1-800-931-2826 for a replacement coupon.
A Preventable Slip with High Stakes
Although the mix-up affected a relatively small number of tubs, 6,668 in total, the consequences could have been devastating for an individual with allergies.
If you or someone in your family has a severe food allergy, stay alert and informed. Mistakes like these can be dangerous or even deadly.