Utah Bakery Recalls Gluten-Free Products Due to Undeclared Allergens
A Utah-based bakery, New Grains Gluten-Free Bakery located in Spanish Fork, has initiated a voluntary recall of sixteen of its gluten-free products. The recall stems from the potential presence of undeclared allergens, namely eggs, soy, and milk, which were not properly listed on the product labels. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a public announcement regarding the recall, emphasizing the potential health risks for individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients.
The affected products include a variety of baked goods, ranging from breads and bagels to cookies and croutons. These products were distributed to retail locations throughout Utah and were marketed as gluten-free options. However, subsequent testing revealed the presence of eggs in all sixteen recalled items, milk in seven, and soy in five. This discrepancy between the labeled ingredients and the actual composition of the products has prompted the recall to protect consumer safety.
Individuals with egg, soy, or milk allergies or sensitivities are particularly vulnerable to adverse reactions upon consuming these products. Allergic reactions can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening conditions such as anaphylaxis. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include skin rashes, hives, itching, swelling, respiratory distress, gastrointestinal upset, and cardiovascular complications. The FDA emphasizes that even a small amount of an allergen can trigger a significant reaction in sensitive individuals.
The recall was initiated after the bakery discovered that products containing eggs, soy, and milk were being distributed with labels that failed to accurately reflect the presence of these ingredients. The investigation into the cause of the labeling error is ongoing, but the bakery is taking immediate steps to rectify the situation and prevent future occurrences.
The sixteen recalled products are as follows:
- Artisan White Bread (Egg)
- Artisan Multigrain Bread (Egg)
- Artisan Sourdough Bread (Egg)
- Artisan Cinnamon Raisin Bread (Egg)
- Blueberry Bagels (Egg)
- Cinnamon Raisin Bagels (Egg)
- Plain Bagels (Egg)
- Multigrain Bagels (Egg)
- Artisan Sourdough Ciabatta Rolls (Egg)
- Chocolate Chip Cookie (Egg, Milk, Soy)
- Dye-Free Frosted Sugar Cookie (Egg, Milk, Soy)
- Frosted Sugar Cookie (Egg, Milk, Soy)
- Coconut Macaroon Cookie (Egg, Milk, Soy)
- Brownie Chocolate Chip Cookie (Egg, Milk, Soy)
- Artisan Seasoned Croutons (Egg, Milk)
- Seasoned Bread Crumbs (Egg, Milk)
Consumers are advised to carefully examine the labels of any New Grains Gluten-Free Bakery products they may have purchased recently. The affected products are identifiable by labels indicating they are gluten-free and displaying the New Grains brand name. The recalled items were distributed between April 7th and April 21st under lot numbers 90-107 exclusively within the state of Utah.
The breads and croutons were packaged in clear, vacuum-sealed plastic bags, while the cookies were packaged in regular clear plastic bags. The labels may feature a variety of colors, including red, purple, orange, blue, green, or pink.
While no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled products to date, the FDA and New Grains Gluten-Free Bakery are urging consumers who have purchased these items not to consume them. Instead, consumers are advised to return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund. This precautionary measure aims to prevent any potential allergic reactions and ensure the safety of consumers with egg, soy, or milk allergies.
The FDA has requested that retailers remove the recalled products from their shelves immediately to prevent further distribution. The agency is also working closely with New Grains Gluten-Free Bakery to monitor the recall and ensure that all affected products are effectively removed from the marketplace.
The incident highlights the critical importance of accurate labeling in the food industry. Consumers rely on food labels to make informed decisions about the products they purchase and consume, especially those with allergies or dietary restrictions. Food manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure that their labels are accurate and complete, reflecting all ingredients and potential allergens present in their products.
The FDA has strict regulations regarding food labeling, including requirements for listing all ingredients and declaring the presence of common allergens. These regulations are designed to protect consumers and prevent allergic reactions. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in recalls, fines, and other enforcement actions.
New Grains Gluten-Free Bakery is cooperating fully with the FDA in the recall process. The bakery is committed to ensuring the safety of its products and is taking steps to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The investigation into the labeling error is ongoing, and the bakery is implementing corrective measures to improve its labeling procedures and quality control processes.
This recall serves as a reminder to consumers with food allergies to always read food labels carefully before consuming any product. It is also important to be aware of the potential for cross-contamination, especially when purchasing products from bakeries or other food establishments that handle multiple ingredients.
Consumers who have questions or concerns about the recall can contact New Grains Gluten-Free Bakery directly or visit the FDA website for more information. The FDA encourages consumers to report any adverse reactions or suspected food safety issues to the agency.
Fox News Digital has reached out to New Grains Gluten-Free Bakery for comment and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
