A recent milk recall has affected consumers across 27 states in the U.S., as HP Hood LLC has voluntarily pulled several varieties of its popular Lactaid milk from store shelves. The reason behind this recall is potential contamination with almonds, posing a serious risk for those with nut allergies. Here’s everything you need to know about the recall, how to identify the affected products, and what steps to take if you’ve purchased them.
Why the Recall Was Issued
HP Hood LLC issued this recall after routine maintenance checks revealed the potential presence of almond traces in specific Lactaid milk products. Since almonds are a common allergen and were not listed on the label, the company is recalling the milk “out of an abundance of caution” to protect consumers from potential allergic reactions.
While there haven’t been any reported health issues linked to these products, HP Hood’s proactive approach underscores the importance of food safety. Taking immediate action can help prevent potential allergic reactions, including severe cases that may lead to life-threatening conditions like anaphylaxis.
Products and States Affected
The recall specifically involves five types of 96-ounce Lactaid milk:
- Lactaid Whole Milk
- Lactaid 2% Milk
- Lactaid 1% Milk
- Lactaid Fat-Free Milk
- Lactaid 2% Calcium Enriched Milk
These products were distributed to stores in the following 27 states: Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
To identify if you have a recalled container, look for the code “51-4109 P2” located on the top-center of the milk container. If your milk matches this code, it’s part of the recall and should not be consumed.
What to Do if You Purchased the Recalled Milk
If you find that you have one of the recalled Lactaid milk products, the FDA advises you to avoid consuming it. Instead, return the milk to the store where you purchased it for a full refund or exchange. This is especially important if anyone in your household has a known allergy to almonds, as even trace amounts can trigger an allergic reaction.
HP Hood LLC has reassured customers that they are taking all necessary precautions to prevent further contamination and will monitor production closely. The company encourages customers to check the FDA’s website for ongoing updates and any additional information on the recall.
The Importance of This Recall for Allergy Safety
The potential contamination with almonds is a significant issue, particularly for people with nut allergies. Almonds can cause serious allergic reactions, making it crucial to remove these products from circulation. The fact that the almond allergen was not disclosed on the label only heightens the importance of this recall, as those with allergies may unknowingly consume a product that could harm them.
Even though no allergic reactions or illnesses have been reported, this precautionary recall helps protect consumers from unexpected allergen exposure and underscores the importance of accurate labeling.
How the Contamination Was Detected
This issue was discovered during routine maintenance checks—a standard practice for food manufacturers to ensure safety and quality. HP Hood’s quality control team identified trace amounts of almonds in the production process, prompting the company to issue an immediate recall. Routine checks like these are essential in preventing contamination, and in this case, they helped uncover a hidden allergen before any consumer incidents were reported.
Stay Updated and Safe
This recall highlights the importance of staying informed about the products we consume, especially when it comes to potential allergens. If you have Lactaid milk in your fridge, take a moment to check the code and return any affected products for a refund. When it comes to food safety, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
For further details on this recall, you can visit the official FDA website for a full list of affected products and states. For additional questions, HP Hood Consumer Affairs is available at 800-242-2423, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.
