The FDA has issued a Class I recall of nearly 12,000 chicken salad sandwiches due to an undeclared milk allergen, raising concerns about proper food labeling and consumer safety.
Quick Takes
- Cromer Food Services recalled chicken salad sandwiches due to undeclared milk allergens.
- Milk is a major allergen that was not listed on the sandwich packaging.
- The recall affects sandwiches sold in Georgia and South Carolina micro markets and vending machines.
- Consumers can return or safely dispose of the affected products.
The Recall Details
The FDA recalled chicken salad sandwiches from Cromer Food Services because of undeclared milk allergens. Nearly 12,000 prepackaged sandwiches are part of this recall, categorized as Class I, the most severe risk level. The products come in 4.3-ounce packages with UPC codes 31166 and 13172, carrying expiration dates from January 3 to April 2, 2025.
The sandwiches, containing eggs, wheat, and soy—are distributed in micro markets and vending machines across Georgia and South Carolina. No health incidents have been reported at this time, yet the FDA stresses that undeclared allergens pose significant health risks.
#Newsweek contacted #CromerFoodServices , the company that initiated the #Recall, via phonecall for comment earlier on Tuesday.#FDA #Food #Safety #Warning #Update pic.twitter.com/nEuLMvgE0S
— Londie's Catering & Delivery Service (@ChefLondie) April 23, 2025
Discrepancy Discovered
The issue emerged during a routine FDA inspection on March 25, 2025. Inspectors found that the product label did not list milk as an ingredient despite being present in the sandwich bread. Cromer Food Services voluntarily called for a recall on March 27.
Consumers who bought the affected products can return them or safely dispose of them. The recall emphasizes the critical nature of accurate food labeling for protecting consumer health, especially when it comes to potentially life-threatening allergens.
Allergens on the Rise
Dr. Sebastian Linghvani noted a significant increase in food-related allergic reactions, saying, “Every three minutes in the United States, someone ends up in an emergency room because of an allergic reaction after accidental ingestion of food. And if you look at the incidence of anaphylaxis, it has skyrocketed in the last 5, 10, 20 years. In the US, there’s like a 300-400% increase in the rates of anaphylaxis to foods.”
As more focus is placed on allergen awareness, experts encourage individuals with food allergies to maintain vigilance, considering the growing prevalence of food-induced anaphylaxis. This recall serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by those with such allergies.
Sources:
- Sandwich Recall Sparks Warning to Customers – Newsweek
- Cromer Food Services recalls Chicken Salad on White Sandwich because of undeclared milk
- Cromer Food Services, Inc. Recalls Chicken Salad on White Sandwich Due to Undeclared Milk Allergen | FDA
- Sandwich Recall Update as FDA Sets Highest Risk Warning – Newsweek
