The FDA in the United States regulates food and drugs classified a snack recall affecting four states as a Class II health risk. The recall began earlier this summer and involved the Bday Crunch Mochi Crunch snack produced by Orwaiian LLC, an Oregon-based company.
The snack contains undeclared allergens that could pose People with food allergies are at risk for serious health problems.
What Led to the Recall?
The recall was initiated on August 21, 2023, when Orwaiian LLC discovered that their Bday Crunch Mochi Crunch snack contained undeclared milk and coconut in the “contains” statement.
Although milk and coconut were listed in the product’s ingredient statement, failing to include them in the “contains” label posed a significant risk to consumers with allergies or sensitivities.
A total of 720 units were distributed across California, Oregon, Washington, Washington D.C., and Hawaii. Customers who purchased the snack during this period are urged to return or dispose of the product if they have any sensitivities to milk or coconut.
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FDA’s Class II Recall Classification
On September 11, 2023, the FDA officially categorized the recall as a Class II. According to the FDA, a Class II recall refers to a situation where exposure to a Using this product may cause temporary or reversible negative effects on your health. The risk of severe adverse health effects, however, is remote.
This classification means that while the risk is not deemed life-threatening for the general population, it could still cause significant harm to individuals with allergies or sensitivities to the undeclared ingredients.
Orwaiian’s Response to the Recall
In response to the FDA’s classification, Orwaiian LLC issued a statement to Newsweek expressing its commitment to resolving the issue. It is collaborating closely with the FDA and the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) to make certain that all necessary steps are being followed.
Orwaiian LLC is also working to improve its labeling process by implementing more rigorous reviews. These measures include utilizing internal and third-party reviewers to ensure that future products comply with FDA guidelines and labeling requirements.
The company added that all retail consignees have already been notified, and they are urging customers who may have purchased the product between May 18, 2023, and July 29, 2024, to return or destroy the product if they have sensitivities to the allergens in question.
The Health Risks of Undeclared Allergens
People who have allergies to milk or coconut are at risk of experiencing severe or even life-threatening reactions if they consume this snack. The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) has warned people who have an allergy or strong reaction to either milk or coconut should not eat this product.
In extreme cases, consuming these allergens can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal allergic reaction.
Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention. Common symptoms include:
- Swelling of the throat and larynx
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe lowering of blood pressure
- Shock
- Constricted airways in the lungs
If not treated, these signs can cause death. Anyone who suspects they are experiencing anaphylaxis should seek emergency medical care immediately.
Milk and Coconut: Major Food Allergens
Under U.S. law, milk and coconut are classified as major food allergens. The FDA recognizes nine major food allergens. These allergens account for most severe food allergies and must be clearly labeled on food packaging. The nine major allergens are:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Fish (e.g., bass, flounder, cod)
- Crustacean shellfish (e.g., crab, lobster, shrimp)
- Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, coconuts)
- Peanuts
- Wheat
- Soybeans
- Sesame
Failing to label products containing these allergens properly can have serious consequences, including life-threatening allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.
Orwaiian LLC’s Plan for Future Safety
To prevent future incidents, Orwaiian LLC has promised to enhance its labeling processes. It will review all product labels more thoroughly, utilizing both internal audits and third-party services to avoid labeling errors.
The company is also committed to adhering strictly to FDA and ODA guidelines to protect consumers from potential harm.
What Should You Do if You Purchased the Recalled Snack?
Suppose you purchased the Bday Crunch Mochi Crunch snack between May 18, 2023, and July 29, 2024, and have a sensitivity to milk or coconut. In that case, the FDA and Orwaiian LLC recommend that you either dispose of the product or return it to the store where it was purchased.
Even if you do not have a known allergy, it’s essential to avoid caution, as cross-contamination can sometimes lead to unexpected reactions.
Consumers must still determine if they purchased the recalled snack and can check the packaging for information. If the product is from Orwaiian LLC and labeled as Bday Crunch Mochi Crunch, it is part of the recall.
The Importance of Allergen Labeling
This recall highlights the critical importance of accurate labeling in the food industry. Food allergies affect a large number of individuals. United States, and even trace amounts of allergens can cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals.
The FDA takes these issues seriously, and companies are required by law to disclose the presence of any major food allergens in their products.
By enhancing its labeling process, Orwaiian LLC aims to prevent the same occurrences from happening again, ensuring safety both its customers and its reputation.
Final Thoughts
Consumers with milk or coconut allergies should take immediate action if they have purchased the Bday Crunch Mochi Crunch snack. Although the risk is classified as Class II by the FDA, meaning it is not likely to cause serious harm to most people, the potential for an allergic reaction exists.
As always, it’s essential to stay informed about food recalls and ensure the products you purchase are safe to consume. Orwaiian LLC’s recall reminds us of the importance of clear labeling and the potential dangers of undeclared allergens in food products.
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