Candy Almond Recall Raises Nationwide Allergy Concerns

A candy recall originating from Apple Valley, Minnesota, has stirred nationwide worries over potentially life-threatening allergic reactions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) flagged a voluntary recall by Abdallah Candies due to mislabeling issues with their “sea salt almond alligators” product. These candies were incorrectly labeled as “chocolate covered cherries” and bore the code “0315” on their boxes.

The mislabeling is critical because the affected boxes contain almonds, an allergen not declared on the packaging. For individuals with tree nut allergies, consuming such candies could trigger anaphylaxis, a severe and sometimes fatal condition. Abdallah Candies reported that the mislabeled confections had been distributed nationwide from March 1 to March 29.

According to the company’s announcement, the boxes labeled as chocolate-covered cherries actually contain sea salt almond alligators, with almonds being an undisclosed ingredient. This poses a significant risk to individuals with almond allergies, potentially leading to serious or life-threatening allergic reactions upon consumption.

The candies were sold across various retail outlets, including specialty stores and grocery stores. While no illnesses had been reported at the time of the announcement, consumers were strongly advised not to consume the products and to either destroy them or return them to the place of purchase.

Images of the affected boxes clearly displaying the code “0315” were shared alongside the announcement. Consumers with queries regarding the recall were directed to contact Abdallah Candies at 952-890-4770 or 800-348-7328 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT from Monday to Friday.

This recall comes amidst a series of similar incidents. Just days earlier, a voluntary recall for macaron cookies was issued by Lidl, a German discount supermarket chain operating in the U.S. A California company also recalled mini ice cream bars due to potential salmonella contamination.

Though fatalities from allergic reactions to undisclosed ingredients are rare, they remain a concern. Recalls are frequently issued to prevent such tragedies, as consuming mislabeled products unaware can pose serious risks even to individuals without allergies.