FDA Classifies Cookie Recall as Highest Risk: What You Need to Know
According to News Week, Over 10,000 packages of cookies have been recalled due to the presence of an undeclared allergen, prompting significant health concerns.
Details of the Recall
In September, Hawaii-based KTM Services recalled its Enjoy Premium Coconut Cookies in both 5.3-ounce and 17.7-ounce packages. The recall was initiated because the cookies contain milk, a major allergen that was not declared on the product label. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified this recall as Class I, indicating the highest risk level.
Understanding Class I Recall
A Class I recall is issued when there is a “reasonable probability” that the use of or exposure to a product could “cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
Affected Products and Distribution
According to the FDA, the impacted products have best-by dates ranging from August 8, 2024, to September 12, 2024. These cookies were sold in retail stores across Hawaii, Guam, and Las Vegas, Nevada, as well as online. The recall affects a total of 9,734 units of the 5.3-ounce Coconut Cookies and 1,275 units of the 17.7-ounce Coconut Cookies.
Allergens and Health Risks
Milk is one of nine major allergens designated by the FDA, along with soybeans, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and sesame. All major allergens must be clearly declared on food packaging. The FDA warns that consumption of undeclared allergens can lead to serious or even life-threatening allergic reactions.
Common symptoms of food-allergy reactions can include hives, rashes, swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and coughing or wheezing. More severe reactions, known as anaphylaxis, may involve swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness. The FDA emphasizes that “symptoms of anaphylaxis may start out as relatively mild but, if not treated promptly, can become life-threatening very quickly.”
What to Do in Case of an Allergic Reaction
Anyone who suspects they are experiencing a serious allergic reaction should seek immediate medical assistance or call 911.
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In the event of illness due to an undeclared allergen, Dr. Darin Detwiler, a professor of food policy and corporate social responsibility at Northeastern University, recommends the following steps:
- Seek Medical Help: Address your symptoms promptly to ensure your health and safety.
- Report the Incident: Notify the FDA and local health departments about your illness or allergic reaction to help prevent others from getting sick.
- Retain Evidence: Keep the packaging and any remaining product, as this information can be crucial for any investigations or potential legal actions.
Current Status of the Recall
As of the FDA’s original recall statement issued on September 19, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the KTM Services product. Newsweek has contacted KTM Services for comments outside of regular business hours.
Consumers are urged to check their products and exercise caution regarding food allergens to ensure their safety.
