A serious mislabeling incident prompts the FDA to announce the recall of over 1,600 units of Hannaford Seafood Salads.
At a Glance
- The FDA announced a Class II risk level for recalled seafood salads due to mislabeling.
- Over 1,600 units of Hannaford Seafood Salads were recalled from stores in several northeastern states.
- The recall was due to undeclared hydrolyzed soy protein, posing a risk to those with soy allergies.
- Consumers with soy allergies are at risk of serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume the product.
FDA Announces Recall
The FDA’s Class II recall of Hannaford Seafood Salads is due to a crucial labeling mistake that omitted hydrolyzed soy protein, a significant allergen, from the ingredients list. The recall affects over 1,600 units sold in the northeastern United States, specifically in stores in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York.
The mislabeling incident involving hydrolyzed soy protein was identified by Elevation Foods, the producer of the seafood salads. The products were mistakenly mislabeled due to a forthcoming formulation change, with products distributed in late October with use-by dates of November 13 and 14 impacted.
Hannaford is recalling its private brand Original Seafood Salad purchased from the deli department at all stores due to mislabeling. https://t.co/WTyhI1eGWE
— CBS 13 News (@WGME) October 30, 2024
Potential Health Risks
Although the FDA’s Class II recall classification suggests “temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences,” the probability of more severe incidents remains “remote,” FDA notes. However, individuals with significant soy allergies are at heightened risk since consuming these products can trigger severe or potentially life-threatening reactions.
“Consumers with an allergy or severe sensitivity to soy run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products,” the FDA warned.
Symptoms of soy allergies can include stomach issues, coughing, itching, wheezing, vomiting, hives, and difficulty breathing. Those severely affected might require immediate medical intervention, such as an Epi-Pen injection to mitigate reactions.
Consumer Actions and Safety Measures
Consumers aware of the recall are advised to refrain from consuming the affected products and can return them to the purchase location for a full refund. Fortunately, Elevation Foods has reported no illness cases so far, which is a testament to the proactive measures being taken. Hannaford has removed the salads from all store shelves to prevent consumer exposure to the risk.
