If you’re eating Chocolate Almond Fudge Frozen Bars from DF Mavens because it’s dairy-free, watch out—Fal Foods has just issued a recall on one batch of this product, because it contains undeclared milk.
This isn’t great news for people who need to avoid milk products as a result of lactose intolerance or a milk allergy—but note that of the two, a milk allergy is much worse. If you’re allergic to milk, you could potentially have a serious or even life-threatening reaction if you consume it.
Recall Details:
- This batch was shipped to New York and New Jersey between September 4, 2015 and February 29, 2016
- Net weight is 11.52 fl. oz. (340 mL); packed 4 per box
- UPC: 855756004772
- Only lot 15226 is affected
- Box will have a “best by” date of “021317” (February 13, 2017)
A complaint was lodged with the FDA, as these frozen fudge treats aren’t supposed to have milk in them. The FDA confirmed that milk was present after analyzing the product, and an investigation is underway. One illness as a result of this tainted product has been reported thus far.
If any of this applies to you and you need to return the product, you can do so at the place of purchase and get a full refund. If you want to contact Fal Foods, you can call them at 347-813-4705, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., EDT.
Milk allergies are common, and they aren’t necessarily restricted to cow’s milk—someone with a cow milk allergy may also be allergic to sheep’s milk or goat’s milk. Milk allergies can present with several symptoms, including hives, an upset stomach, vomiting, and bloody stools, but the one to be most concerned about is anaphylaxis. This is a potentially life-threating allergic reaction which swells your airways and thus impairs your breathing. It can also lower your blood pressure (which can induce fainting or dizziness) or send you into shock.
To reduce the chances of a severe reaction, make sure you avoid milk, milk protein, and other dairy products, and be sure to carry an Epi-Pen.
Sources:
“Fal Foods USA Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in DF Mavens Chocolate Almond Fudge Frozen Bars,” U.S. Food and Drug Administration web site; http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm506074.htm, last accessed June 10, 2016.
“Milk & Dairy Allergy,” American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology web site; http://acaai.org/allergies/types-allergies/food-allergy/types-food-allergy/milk-dairy-allergy, last accessed June 10, 2016.
