Are you a fan of almond milk?
If so, you may want to double-check your carton before taking a sip.
There has been a recent recall on a popular brand of almond milk due to a serious allergen not listed on the label.
This recall affects nearly 150,000 half-gallon cartons of refrigerated Vanilla Almond Breeze almond milk shipped to wholesalers in 28 states.
As more and more people are turning to milk alternatives for health reasons, it’s important to stay informed about any potential risks or recalls.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the details of this recall and what it means for almond milk drinkers.
Is There A Recall On Almond Breeze Milk?
Yes, there is a recall on a specific batch of Almond Breeze almond milk. The manufacturer, HP Hood LLC, has voluntarily recalled approximately 145,254 half-gallon cartons of refrigerated Vanilla Almond Breeze almond milk due to the presence of milk, an allergen not listed on the label.
Consuming milk could be life-threatening for those with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity to milk. While the product is safe for those without a milk allergy or sensitivity, it’s important to check the use-by date and UPC barcode on the carton before consuming.
The affected product has a use-by date of September 2, 2018, and a Universal Product Code (UPC barcode) of 41570 05621 on the side panel next to the nutrition facts. The recall only applies to this specific product.
The Reason For The Recall
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the affected batch of almond milk may contain traces of milk, which is not listed as an ingredient on the label. This poses a serious health risk to those with a milk allergy or sensitivity. The company has stated that the contamination occurred due to an employee error, where one container of milk was mistakenly added to the almond milk production line.
While the almond milk is processed on a separate line and filler, and all standard validation testing was conducted in accordance with their allergen control program, the company decided to recall all products from this batch as a precautionary measure. The recall affects approximately 0.8% of half-gallon containers of refrigerated Vanilla Almond Breeze almond milk shipped by HP Hood in the last twelve months.
Consumers who have purchased the affected product are encouraged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or exchange, or they can visit the Blue Diamond website to complete a form. The recall is being initiated with the knowledge of the US Food and Drug Administration.
Which States Are Affected?
The recall affects consumers in 28 states across the United States. These states include Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin. If you have purchased Almond Breeze almond milk with the affected use-by date and UPC barcode in any of these states, it’s important to return the product to the store where it was purchased or contact Blue Diamond for a return.
How To Identify If Your Almond Breeze Milk Is Affected
To identify if your Almond Breeze milk is affected by the recall, first check the use-by date on the carton. If it is September 2, 2018, then it may be affected. Next, look for the Universal Product Code (UPC barcode) on the side panel next to the nutrition facts. If it reads 41570 05621, then it is part of the recalled batch.
It’s important to note that this recall only applies to refrigerated Vanilla Almond Breeze almond milk with the use-by date of September 2, 2018. Other flavors or varieties of Almond Breeze almond milk are not affected by this recall.
If you have purchased this specific product and it matches the use-by date and UPC barcode mentioned above, do not consume it if you have a milk allergy or sensitivity. If you have already consumed it and experienced an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. Consumers who have purchased the affected product can return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or exchange.
Potential Risks For Those With Allergies
For those with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity to milk, consuming the recalled Almond Breeze almond milk could pose a serious or life-threatening risk. The US Food and Drug Administration has warned that people who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.
The recall was initiated after one reported allergic reaction, which did not require medical treatment or hospitalization. However, it’s important to note that even a mild allergic reaction can quickly escalate into a severe one, especially in those with a history of severe allergies.
Approximately 145,254 half-gallon cartons of the affected almond milk were shipped to retailers and wholesalers in 28 states across the US. Consumers who have purchased the product should check the use-by date and UPC barcode on the carton and return it for a full refund or exchange.
What The Company Is Doing To Address The Issue
HP Hood LLC has taken swift action to address the issue by voluntarily recalling the affected product. The company is working closely with the US Food and Drug Administration to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to protect consumers.
Consumers who have purchased the affected product are advised to return it to the retail location where it was purchased for a full refund or exchange. Alternatively, they can visit the Blue Diamond website to complete a refund request online.
HP Hood LLC has also provided a full list of states where the recalled product was sold, and consumers with questions about the recall can contact Blue Diamond at 1-800-400-1522, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. ET.
It’s important for companies to take responsibility for their products and take swift action when issues arise. HP Hood LLC has demonstrated its commitment to consumer safety by voluntarily recalling the affected product and working closely with regulatory agencies to ensure that all necessary steps are taken.
Alternatives To Almond Milk For Those With Allergies
For those with allergies to almonds or other common milk substitutes like soy or dairy, there are still plenty of options available. Rice milk is a great choice as it is the least allergenic of the non-dairy milks and is safe for those with allergies or intolerances to dairy, gluten, soy or nuts. It has a mild taste and a natural sweetness that makes it a popular choice for many.
Cashew milk is another great alternative for those who can safely eat cashews but avoid dairy. It has a rich, creamy taste that makes it a great addition to coffee and overnight oats. However, it’s important to note that some brands may have cross-contact with peanuts, so it’s important to check the label before consuming.
Coconut milk is also a popular alternative for those with allergies as it is gluten-, soy-, nut-, and cholesterol-free. It has a creamy texture and sweet flavor that makes it a great substitute in both savory dishes and desserts. However, it’s important to check the label for added sugar and guar gum if those are additives you’re looking to avoid.
For those with nut allergies, soy milk is a great alternative to almond milk. It has a similar texture and consistency and is a good source of protein and calcium. It’s also stable at high temperatures which makes it great for baking.
Other alternatives include sunflower milk, hemp milk, and flax milk. These options are all grain-free as well as dairy-free, making them great choices for those with multiple allergies or dietary restrictions. When using pre-made milk substitutes, always check the label for cross-contamination warnings to ensure your safety.
