FDA Elevates Chocolate Recall to Class 1: A Potentially Deadly Threat to Consumers

The FDA has upgraded the recall of Cal Yee Farms’ chocolate products to Class 1, the most serious level, due to undeclared milk in dark chocolate almonds, apricots, and walnuts. This recall affects multiple states and online sales, posing a serious health risk to those with milk allergies.

The FDA has issued a critical update to a recent chocolate recall, elevating it to the highest risk level, Class 1. This move is in response to the presence of undeclared milk in certain Cal Yee Farms’ products, including dark chocolate almonds, apricots, and walnuts. The initial recall, announced in December 2024, covered products sold in nine states: Arizona, California, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. However, the FDA warns that these products were also sold online, making it essential for consumers to check their pantries if they purchased the items in other states.
A Class 1 recall indicates a reasonable probability that the use of these violative products will cause serious adverse health consequences or death, particularly for individuals with milk allergies. The recalled products were packaged in clear plastic zippered pouches with bright yellow labels and small white labels containing UPC codes. Consumers are advised to discard any affected items immediately and contact the company for a refund.
This recall underscores the importance of accurate labeling in the food industry to protect public health. The FDA’s swift action highlights the need for vigilance in monitoring food safety and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

1. What products are affected by the recall?
   The recall affects Cal Yee Farms’ dark chocolate almonds, apricots, and walnuts due to undeclared milk.
2. Why was the recall elevated to Class 1?
   The recall was elevated because there is a reasonable probability that the use of these products will cause serious adverse health consequences or death, particularly for those with milk allergies.

3. Which states were initially affected by the recall?
   The initial recall covered products sold in nine states: Arizona, California, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.

4. How can consumers identify the recalled products?
   The recalled products were packaged in clear plastic zippered pouches with bright yellow labels and small white labels containing UPC codes.

5. What should consumers do if they have the recalled products?
   Consumers should discard any affected items immediately and contact the company for a refund.

The FDA’s elevation of the chocolate recall to Class 1 underscores the critical importance of accurate labeling in the food industry. This action ensures that consumers are protected from potentially deadly products, particularly those with milk allergies. The recall serves as a reminder for manufacturers to adhere strictly to regulatory standards to safeguard public health.