Palmer Candy Company has issued a major candy recall, affecting several popular products sold at major retailers like Walmart, Dollar Tree, and Target. The recall, which began in May 2024, has been recently upgraded to a Class I recall by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This classification is the most severe and indicates that the affected products could cause serious health risks or even death.
The Contaminated Products
The recalled products include a variety of white-coated confectionary items such as pretzels, cookies, popcorn, and snack mixes. Furthermore, Palmer Candy Company distributed these items nationwide to major retailers like Walmart, Target, HyVee, and Dollar General. In addition, Palmer Candy Company also sent them to stores in multiple states, including California, Texas, Florida, and Wisconsin. Some of the affected brands include Palmer Candy, Great Value, Casey’s, and Every True Tiger, a brand from the University of Missouri.
The Source of Contamination
Palmer Candy initiated the recall after its liquid coating supplier alerted them about possible Salmonella contamination. This bacterium causes foodborne illnesses, affecting around 1.3 million Americans each year. Symptoms of Salmonella infection include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which, in particular, can be especially dangerous for children, people over 50, and those with weakened immune systems.
Severity and Response
The FDA’s decision to escalate the recall to a Class I status highlights the seriousness of the contamination. A Class I recall signifies a reasonable probability that the use or exposure to the product will result in severe adverse health consequences or death. While no illnesses have been reported so far, the risk posed by the contaminated products is significant.
Palmer Candy has suspended production of the affected items while the FDA and the company continue their investigation into the source of the contamination. Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
What to Do Next
If you have purchased any of the white-coated confectionary items listed in the recall, it is important to check the “Best By” dates and return them immediately. You can contact Palmer Candy Company at 1-800-831-0828 for more information and assistance. This recall serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of foodborne illnesses and the importance of strict safety protocols in food production. Stay informed and take action if you have any of the affected products in your home.
By: Khalyse Hemingway
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Inset image courtesy of Glen Carrie Flicker page -Creative Commons License
Featured image courtesy of Christine Sandu Flicker page -Creative Commons License
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