FDA Announces Recall on Ritz Crackers Sold Nationwide—Here's What to Know - EatingWell
Ritz Cracker Recall: FDA Issues Active Recall Due to Mislabeling and Undeclared Allergens
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an active recall on multiple Ritz cracker products sold at grocery stores across the United States. The recall is due to mislabeling, which resulted in the presence of undeclared allergens.
What Happened?
The FDA announced that certain Ritz cracker products were mislabeled with incorrect information regarding their ingredients. Specifically, some products contained undeclared allergens, including wheat and soy, which are not declared on the packaging.
Recalled Products
According to the FDA, multiple Ritz cracker products have been recalled due to this issue. These products include:
- Ritz Crackers
- Ritz Bits
- Ritz Snowflake Crackers
These products were sold at various grocery stores across the United States and were distributed nationwide.
Reason for Recall
The FDA issued a recall of these products after receiving reports from consumers who had experienced adverse reactions to eating them. The agency determined that the mislabeling on the packaging posed a risk to public health, particularly for individuals with food allergies.
Symptoms of Adverse Reactions
Consumers who have eaten the recalled Ritz cracker products may experience symptoms such as:
- Hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
If you or a family member has experienced any of these symptoms after eating the recalled Ritz cracker products, seek medical attention immediately.
What to Do If You've Purchased Recalled Products
If you have purchased any of the recalled Ritz cracker products, do not consume them. Instead:
- Check your packaging for the following labels:
- "Best By" or "Best If Used By" date
- "Net Weight" label
- Contact the manufacturer, National Biscuit Company (NBC), at 1-800-645-4444 to request a full refund.
- Return any unopened packages of recalled products to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Prevention and Tips
To avoid similar issues in the future:
- Always check food packaging for accurate labeling
- Be aware of common allergens, such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat, and sesame.
- If you have a food allergy or intolerance, consult with your healthcare provider before consuming new foods.
FDA Response
The FDA is taking steps to ensure that food manufacturers comply with labeling regulations. The agency will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
Conclusion
The Ritz cracker recall serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate labeling on food packaging. Consumers must remain vigilant in checking product labels for potential allergens and reporting any issues to the FDA. By taking proactive steps, we can minimize the risk of adverse reactions and ensure public health and safety.
Additional Resources
- FDA Website: The official website of the US Food and Drug Administration
- National Biscuit Company (NBC) Website: The manufacturer's website, where you can find more information about the recall and request a refund.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this recall, please contact us.