by Ann Arbor, MI – Just days ahead of Halloween, Zingerman’s Candy Manufactory has issued a recall on two of its popular candy bars due to potential life-threatening cross-contamination with peanuts and cashews. This urgent recall highlights the need for shoppers to carefully inspect candies for allergens during the festive season.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) alert has consumers on high alert as the company found traces of cashews in its Peanut Butter Crush Bars and peanuts in its Cashew Cow Bars—ingredients not listed on the respective product labels. While no illnesses have been reported so far, those with allergies face serious risks, making this recall critical ahead of trick-or-treating celebrations.
Details Behind the Recall
Zingerman’s, a beloved Michigan-based confectionery known for its old-fashioned candy bars and handmade treats, announced the recall last Friday after discovering a mix-up in the production process. The contamination was due to a “temporary breakdown in the production and packaging processes,” according to the company.
- The Peanut Butter Crush Bars (in yellow and purple boxes) contained unlisted cashews.
- The Cashew Cow Bars (in light blue and yellow boxes) contained unlisted peanuts.
- Both products bear the Lot Number 174250.
- The candy was sold at Zingerman’s stores in Michigan and New York.
Consumers who purchased these candy bars are urged to return them to the store for a full refund.
“People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to cashews or peanuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products,” the recall announcement emphasized.
Understanding the Allergy Risks
Peanut allergy is the most common food allergy among children under 18, according to the Food Allergy Research & Education organization. This makes the recall notably important for families planning to hand out candy.
On a more hopeful note, recent landmark research shows that introducing peanut products early in infancy can reduce the incidence of life-threatening peanut allergies. The study documented a 27% drop in peanut allergies among children aged newborn to three after 2015 guidelines, with further reductions after expanded recommendations in 2017.
Read Also: Halloween Marks the Final Chance to See Buckingham Fountain in Action This Year
Halloween Trends and What to Expect
As Halloween approaches, market research indicates a shift in children’s candy preferences, with more trick-or-treaters likely to receive gummy candies rather than traditional chocolate bars this year.
For additional background and expert insights, visit the detailed report at The Independent.
Looking Ahead
Zingerman’s co-founder Ari Weinzweig noted that the recall originated about a month ago and that corrective measures have been implemented to prevent future incidents.
As Halloween festivities get underway, parents and candy buyers should stay vigilant about food allergies and read candy labels carefully to ensure safety.
What do you think about this recall and allergy safety measures? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
