RECALL UPDATE: Waffle Recall Update As FDA Sets Risk Level for 13 States
Waffles flavored with vanilla and buttermilk, which were recalled in August across the Midwest, have now been classified as a “Class II” recall by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Details of the Recall
The Utah-based company Kodiak Cakes issued a voluntary recall of 7,300 boxes of their Kodiak Protein-Packed Power Waffles Buttermilk & Vanilla, shipped to Costco locations in the Midwest, due to the “potential presence of soft plastic film,” according to a customer notice. The FDA has recently classified this as a “Class II” recall, meaning the product may cause “temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences,” although the probability of serious health consequences is considered remote.
Identifying the Recalled Waffles
The affected waffles are marked with a use-by date of January 10, 2026, a lot code of 24193-WL4, and UPC number 705599019203. The recalled products were distributed to Costco locations in Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
Potential Risks of Ingesting Soft Plastic Film
Soft plastic film in food products can present several hazards. The film could become lodged in the throat, posing a choking risk, especially for children, the elderly, or people with swallowing difficulties. Ingesting the plastic could also lead to blockages in the gastrointestinal tract.
Some types of plastics may contain harmful chemicals, such as BPA or phthalates, which could leach into the food and pose long-term health risks like hormonal disruption. Additionally, plastic film may harbor bacteria or other contaminants, raising concerns about food safety and the potential for foodborne illnesses.
Common Cause of Recalls
Foreign objects like plastic film are a leading cause of food recalls in the U.S., accounting for 11.6 percent of all recalls between 2020 and 2024, according to regulatory compliance company Trace One.
Kodiak’s Response to the Recall
Kodiak Cakes expressed regret about the situation, stating, “The quality, safety, and integrity of our products is our number one priority at Kodiak. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this has caused you and appreciate your cooperation in this matter.” As of August 26, no injuries had been reported, and no other Kodiak products were affected.
Other Recent Food Recalls
The recall of the waffles follows several other recent food recalls, including a dark chocolate gelato dessert recalled for mislabeling, chocolate bars that failed to declare nuts and wheat on the packaging, and macaroni salad found to contain foreign material.
