Urgent Potato Salad Recall: FDA Issues Class I Risk Warning

According to News Week, The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified a potato salad product from Lemonland Food Corp as Class I—the most severe risk category—prompting its removal from store shelves.

Details of the Recall

On September 11, Lemonland Food Corp initiated a recall for a batch of its Potato Salad, which is packaged in plastic clamshell containers. The recall was prompted by the discovery of undeclared soybean oil and egg in the product.

Undeclared ingredients pose significant dangers for individuals with allergies or intolerances, making it essential for them to be aware of what products to avoid.

FDA Classifications Explained

In an update issued on Wednesday, the FDA categorized this recall as Class I, indicating a situation where “there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”

For context:

• Class II refers to situations where “use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
• Class III is for instances where “use of or exposure to a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.”

Scope of the Recall

The recall affects approximately 120 packages of potato salad, which were voluntarily pulled from distribution by the Washington State-based company. Each package weighs 0.56 pounds and is labeled under the H-Mart brand with the following declared ingredients: “Potato, Mayonnaise, Sugar, Vegetable.” The expiry date for the product is September 8 of this year.

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Health Risks for Allergic Individuals

Individuals with soy allergies can experience symptoms ranging from mild rashes and itching to severe anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. According to Anaphylaxis U.K., symptoms can manifest immediately or may have a delayed reaction that can occur hours or even days after consumption.

Egg allergies can also lead to adverse reactions, including rashes, stomach pains, and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis.

Related Recall: Cookies with Undeclared Allergen

In addition to the potato salad recall, a similar Class I recall occurred in September involving cookies. Hawaii-based KTM Services recalled more than 10,000 packages of Enjoy Premium Coconut Cookies due to the undeclared presence of milk, a major allergen, in both 5.3-ounce and 17.7-ounce packages.

Newsweek has reached out to Lemonland Food Corp via email to inquire about any reported illnesses related to the potato salad recall.

Consumers are urged to check their products and be vigilant about allergens to ensure their safety.