Ice Cream Recall Update: FDA Raises Risk Level Due to Undeclared Ingredients

According to News Week, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified a recall of ice cream produced by Today’s Frozen Desserts, Inc. as Class II after it was discovered that the product contained undeclared food colorings, specifically Yellow 5 (Tartrazine) and Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF).

Potential Risks of Mislabeling

Mislabeling food products can pose significant risks, especially for consumers who are sensitive or allergic to certain food dyes or other ingredients. The ice cream, distributed in Florida, was voluntarily recalled by the company after inspections revealed that these artificial colors were not listed among the ingredients on the packaging.

While the oversight does not pose an immediate life-threatening risk, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 can cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals, including allergic reactions, hives, or hyperactivity in children, as reported by ADDitude magazine.

Understanding Class II Recalls

A Class II recall is issued when a product may cause a temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequence, or where the probability of serious health consequences is remote. In this case, while the undeclared food colorings can trigger allergies in some consumers, they are unlikely to result in severe health risks for the general population.

Common Use of Yellow 5 and Yellow 6

Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 are widely used food dyes found in many processed foods, beverages, and snacks. The FDA mandates that these additives be included on food labels due to their potential to cause reactions in individuals with sensitivities.

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Consumer Advisory and Recall Details

Consumers with sensitivities to Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 are advised to avoid consuming the recalled ice cream and to return the product to the store where it was purchased for a full refund.

Details of the Recalled Products:

• Product Quantity: A total of 1,363 units across all five flavors and sizes: Quart, Half Gallon, and 3 Gallon.

Product Descriptions:

Premium Grapenut Special: Packaged in paper and plastic containers (sizes: 3 Gallons, Half Gallons, Quarts). Expiration Date: 6/13/2025 – 9/13/2025.

• • • Recall Number: F-0030-2025
    • Code Information: 00177240B, 00185240B, 00209240B, 00247240B, 00262240B.

Premium Pistachio Grapenut: Packaged in paper and plastic containers (sizes: 3 Gallons, Half Gallons, Quarts). Expiration Date: 6/13/2025 – 9/13/2025.

• • • Recall Number: F-0029-2025
    • Code Information: 00177240B, 00185240B, 00188240B, 00200240B, 00207240B, 00209240B, 00220240B, 00227240B, 00229240B, 00234240B, 00247240B, 00254240B.

Rum Nut Ice Cream: Packaged in paper and plastic containers (sizes: 3 Gallons, Half Gallons, Quarts). Expiration Date: 6/13/2025 – 9/13/2025.

• • • Recall Number: F-0028-2025
    • Code Information: 00173240B, 00185240B, 00200240B, 00209240B, 00229240B, 00253240B, 00262240B.

Other Products: Additional flavors and sizes have similar packaging and expiration details.

Conclusion

Consumers are urged to check their freezers for the recalled ice cream and follow the recommended actions to ensure their safety. The FDA continues to monitor the situation to prevent similar issues in the future.