The FDA has recalled Macrina Bakery’s “Mini Raspberry Lemon Coffee Cake” due to mislabeling, putting consumers with wheat and walnut allergies at risk.
At a Glance
- Macrina Bakery’s “Mini Raspberry Lemon Coffee Cake” recalled due to mislabeling
- Product contains undeclared wheat and walnuts, posing risks to allergy sufferers
- 38 loaves affected, with UPC 8 57297 00745 4 and sell-by date of 09/17
- FDA classifies as Class II recall, indicating potentially reversible health consequences
- Incident highlights broader issues with food allergen labeling in the baking industry
FDA Recalls Mislabeled Bakery Product
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for Macrina Bakery’s “Mini Raspberry Lemon Coffee Cake” due to a critical mislabeling error. The product, manufactured in Kent, Washington, was incorrectly labeled as “Mini Squash Harvest Loaf,” leading to undeclared allergens that could pose significant health risks to certain consumers.
The recall affects 38 loaves of the product, identifiable by the UPC 8 57297 00745 4 and a sell-by date of 09/17. The FDA has classified this as a Class II recall, indicating that while the health consequences may be temporary or reversible, they could be serious for individuals with specific allergies or intolerances.
Allergen Concerns and Health Risks
The mislabeled product contains wheat and walnuts, both of which are considered major food allergens by the FDA. For individuals with Celiac disease, wheat allergies, or gluten intolerance, consuming wheat can lead to a range of adverse health effects. Similarly, those with tree nut allergies may experience severe reactions to walnuts.
“While most symptoms from food allergies are mild and limited to skin or digestive discomfort, some may progress to a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. This can lead to constricted airways in the lungs; severe lowering of blood pressure and shock (‘anaphylactic shock’); suffocation by swelling of the throat and larynx,” the FDA states.
The presence of undeclared allergens in food products is a serious concern, as it can lead to unexpected and potentially life-threatening allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Consumers with wheat or nut allergies who may have purchased this product are advised to dispose of it immediately or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Broader Issues in Food Allergen Labeling
This recall is not an isolated incident in the baking industry. Recently, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., a major player in the baking industry that owns popular brands such as Sara Lee, Oroweat, and Thomas’. The warning came after inspections revealed that some of their products listed major food allergens on their labels that were not actually present in the product formulations.
“The “Mini Raspberry Lemon Coffee Cake”, made by Macrina Bakery of Kent, Washington, has been recalled due to mislabeling of products.”
The FDA’s actions highlight the critical importance of accurate food labeling, especially when it comes to allergens. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), food labels must be truthful and not misleading. Companies are required to accurately list ingredients and follow good manufacturing practices to prevent allergen cross-contact.
Importance of Accurate Labeling
The recent addition of sesame to the list of major food allergens through the FASTER Act has further emphasized the need for precise labeling practices. Accurate food labeling is crucial for individuals with food allergies to make safe food choices and avoid potentially dangerous reactions.
“This recall has been assigned a Class II risk level by the FDA. Class II classifications are enforced in ‘a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote,’ according to the FDA.”
As the FDA continues to monitor the situation and take steps to protect consumers with food allergies, it serves as a reminder to all food manufacturers of the critical importance of accurate labeling. Consumers, especially those with known food allergies, are encouraged to always carefully read product labels and stay informed about food recalls and allergen alerts.
