Hummus Recall Update: FDA Sets Risk Level
Gelson’s Markets, a Southern California-based grocery chain, has issued a voluntary recall of several of its store-brand dips, including multiple varieties of hummus and tzatziki, after federal regulators flagged a labeling concern.
The recall, initiated on July 25, 2025, was formally classified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a Class II recall on August 22, 2025, according to FDA enforcement records. The affected products did not include the required “keep refrigerated” instructions on their packaging, raising concerns that consumers could unknowingly store the dips improperly.
Why the Recall Matters
Refrigerated foods like hummus and tzatziki are particularly sensitive to storage conditions. Without clear refrigeration guidance, there is a risk that these products could spoil or allow bacterial growth, especially if left at room temperature.
The FDA defines a Class II recall as one in which use of or exposure to the product may cause “temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences” but where the chance of serious illness is considered remote. In other words, while the issue is not expected to cause severe harm in most cases, it does present a preventable risk if consumers are not aware of the storage requirements.
Products Affected
The recall covers 7,861 units of Gelson’s proprietary dips, sold exclusively at its Southern California stores. The products include:
Gelson's Tzatziki (Old World Family Recipe, Made in California) – 8 oz, UPC 23631-10268, with expiration dates ranging from July 29 to September 15, 2025.
Gelson's Hummus, Low Sodium No Cholesterol Classic – 10 oz, UPC 23631-10260, with expiration dates from August 1 to September 11, 2025.
Gelson's Hummus, Mediterranean Old World Family Recipe (no added oil) – 8 oz, UPC 23631-10261, with expiration dates from August 1 to September 11, 2025.
Gelson's Hummus, Red Bell Pepper Old World Family Recipe – 8 oz, UPC 23631-10262, with expiration dates from August 1 to September 11, 2025.
All recalled products were distributed solely through Gelson’s retail locations in Southern California.
Gelson’s Responds
On its website, Gelson’s emphasized its commitment to safety, noting that it has “comprehensive food safety and quality assurance programs in place” and works closely with federal agencies, including the FDA and USDA. The company added that it continuously reviews its retail safety standards to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
What Customers Should Do
Customers who purchased any of the affected dips are urged not to consume them. Instead, they should either discard the items or return them to Gelson’s for a full refund.
The FDA is continuing to monitor the recall’s effectiveness to make sure that consumers are properly alerted and that potentially mislabeled products are removed from circulation.
The Bigger Picture
While this recall stems from a labeling oversight rather than contamination, food safety experts note that such errors can have real consequences. Refrigeration instructions are critical for dips, dairy products, and prepared foods, which can quickly become unsafe if not properly stored.
This latest case highlights the importance of strict labeling practices in the grocery industry, even for well-regarded regional chains like Gelson’s. The recall serves as a reminder for consumers to pay close attention to storage instructions — and for manufacturers to ensure such information is never omitted.
For Gelson’s, the incident may be more about consumer trust than immediate health risk. By acting voluntarily and cooperating with the FDA, the company is working to reassure shoppers that safety remains its top priority.
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