If you’re a fan of seafood, chances are you’ve tried Kraft’s tartar sauce at least once.
It’s a classic condiment that adds a tangy kick to your favorite fish dishes.
However, recently there has been some news surrounding the popular sauce.
A voluntary recall was issued due to a labeling issue that could potentially harm those with egg allergies.
But what exactly happened to Kraft tartar sauce?
In this article, we’ll dive into the details and explore the history of this beloved condiment.
What Happened To Kraft Tartar Sauce?
As mentioned earlier, Kraft tartar sauce was recently recalled due to a labeling issue. The condiment contains egg, but the label did not state so. This means that people with egg allergies could potentially consume the sauce without realizing the risk.
While no illnesses have been reported, Kraft took the precautionary measure of recalling the product to ensure the safety of its consumers. The company has stated that they take food safety very seriously and are committed to providing accurate labeling on all of their products.
It’s important to note that this is not the first time Kraft has had to issue a recall for one of its products. In 2015, the company recalled over 6 million boxes of macaroni and cheese due to concerns over metal fragments in the product.
Despite these recalls, Kraft remains a popular brand for many consumers. Their tartar sauce, in particular, has been a staple in households for decades.
The History Of Kraft Tartar Sauce
Kraft, a company known for its wide range of food products, has been producing tartar sauce for many years. The company started as a wholesale cheese-delivery business in 1903 and has since grown to include popular products like chocolates, cream cheese, nuts, desserts, beverages, cookies, and meats.
Kraft tartar sauce is made with a mix of mayonnaise, pickles, and curated spices to complement a variety of foods. Its cool, tangy, homemade taste expertly pairs with fried shrimp, fish tacos, and even grilled vegetables and fried chicken tenders.
Over the years, Kraft has made changes to its tartar sauce recipe to keep up with changing consumer preferences. The company has also introduced new packaging options to make the product more convenient for consumers. For example, the tartar sauce now comes in a 12 fluid ounce inverted easy-squeeze bottle with a flip cap for convenient use.
Despite the recent recall of Kraft tartar sauce due to a labeling issue, the company remains committed to providing quality products that taste good. With so much versatility and a name brand that consumers trust, Kraft tartar sauce is sure to remain a popular condiment for years to come.
The Ingredients In Kraft Tartar Sauce
Kraft tartar sauce is made up of a variety of ingredients, including water, vinegar, sugar, chopped pickles, modified food starch, high fructose corn syrup, and dried onions. It also contains soybean oil, which is present in a trivial amount and does not contribute significantly to the fat or cholesterol content of the sauce.
The condiment also includes cellulose gel, which is a thickening agent commonly used in food products. Additionally, egg yolks are included in the sauce, although only in a trivial amount.
Other ingredients in Kraft tartar sauce include citric acid, lactic acid, xanthan gum, artificial color, dried parsley, natural and artificial flavor, mustard flour, cellulose gum, phosphoric acid, spice, paprika, l-cysteine, dried garlic, yellow 6, beta carotene. The sauce also contains potassium sorbate and calcium disodium edta as preservatives.
The Voluntary Recall And Labeling Issue
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Kraft Canada issued a warning about certain batches of Kraft Tartar Sauce. The label on these products did not disclose that egg was an ingredient, which could be dangerous for people with egg allergies. The affected product was a 355 ml size with a Uniform Product Code of 0 683071 0 and Best Before Dates of 10 OC 02 and 10 OC 08, distributed in Canada.
Kraft Canada voluntarily recalled the affected products from the marketplace due to the mislabeling. The CFIA is monitoring the effectiveness of the recall, and no illnesses have been associated with the product so far.
This incident highlights the importance of accurate labeling on food products. Mislabeling can cause serious or life-threatening reactions in people with allergies, and companies have a responsibility to ensure that their products are labeled correctly.
The recall also raises questions about food safety and quality control. Consumers trust that the products they purchase are safe to eat, and incidents like this can erode that trust. Companies must take measures to ensure the safety of their products and address any issues promptly to maintain consumer confidence.
Potential Health Risks For Those With Egg Allergies
For individuals with egg allergies, consuming Kraft tartar sauce could pose a serious health risk. Symptoms of an egg allergy include vomiting, stomach cramps, indigestion, diarrhea, wheezing, and swelling of the lips or tongue. In severe cases, it can even lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.
It’s crucial for those with egg allergies to avoid products that contain egg ingredients, including mayonnaise-based condiments like tartar sauce. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Kraft Canada have advised individuals with egg allergies to be cautious and avoid consuming the affected batches of Kraft tartar sauce.
It’s also important to note that tartar sauce contains lemon juice, which can cause reactions in individuals with citrus allergies. Additionally, other ingredients in tartar sauce such as mustard or dill may also trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.
If you have a known food allergy, it’s essential to carefully read the ingredients list before consuming any product. Alternatively, you can make your own tartar sauce at home to ensure that you have control over the ingredients used.
Furthermore, if you are taking blood thinners like warfarin, it’s important to maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K, which is present in tartar sauce. Any changes to your diet should be discussed with your doctor beforehand to ensure that your medications work effectively.
Kraft’s Response To The Recall
Kraft Canada, the company responsible for distributing the mislabeled tartar sauce, has taken swift action in response to the recall. They have voluntarily recalled all affected products from the marketplace and are working with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to monitor the effectiveness of the recall.
The company has also released a statement apologizing for any inconvenience caused by the recall and reassuring consumers that they are committed to providing safe and high-quality products. They have urged anyone who has purchased the affected tartar sauce to return it for a full refund or dispose of it properly.
It’s worth noting that Kraft is not the only food company to issue recalls due to labeling issues or potential contamination. In fact, recalls are a common occurrence in the food industry, as companies work to ensure the safety and quality of their products.
Availability And Alternatives To Kraft Tartar Sauce
For those who are missing the taste of Kraft tartar sauce, there are several alternatives available on the market. One popular option is Woeber’s Sweet & Tangy Tartar Sauce, which offers a similar tangy flavor with a touch of sweetness. This sauce is made with high-quality ingredients, including pickles, vinegar, onion, and spices.
Another option is to make your own tartar sauce at home. This allows you to customize the flavor to your liking and ensure that all of the ingredients are safe for your dietary needs. A simple recipe for homemade tartar sauce includes mayonnaise, pickles, capers, lemon juice, and herbs such as dill or parsley.
Other brands that offer tartar sauce include Heinz and Hellmann’s. These sauces can be found in most grocery stores and are typically located in the condiment aisle.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, there are also low-fat and reduced-calorie tartar sauces available. These sauces typically use Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise as a base and include fewer calories and less fat than traditional tartar sauce.
