HP Hood LLC, the company behind Lactaid milk, has issued a voluntary recall impacting consumers in 27 states across the U.S. The recall involves certain Lactaid milk products that may contain trace amounts of almonds, posing a significant risk for individuals with nut allergies. Here’s a breakdown of the situation, how to identify the affected products, and the steps you should take if you’ve purchased them.
Why Is the Recall Happening?
The recall was initiated after HP Hood LLC discovered potential almond contamination during routine quality control checks. Almonds, a common allergen, were not disclosed on the product label. To safeguard consumers from allergic reactions, the company is recalling these products “out of an abundance of caution.”
Although no allergic reactions or illnesses have been reported so far, the recall emphasizes the critical role of food safety measures. Allergic reactions to almonds can be severe and, in extreme cases, life-threatening, underscoring the importance of this proactive approach.
Affected Products and Regions
The recall applies to five varieties of Lactaid milk sold in 96-ounce containers. These include:
- Lactaid Whole Milk
- Lactaid 2% Milk
- Lactaid 1% Milk
- Lactaid Fat-Free Milk
- Lactaid 2% Calcium Enriched Milk
These products were distributed in the following 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 determine if your milk is affected, check the container’s top-center for the code “51-4109 P2.” If this code matches your product, do not consume it.
What Should You Do if You Have the Recalled Milk?
If you find that your Lactaid milk is part of the recall:
- Do not consume it. Avoid any risk of exposure, especially if anyone in your household has a nut allergy.
- Return the product. Take the affected milk back to the store where you purchased it for a full refund or exchange.
- Monitor updates. HP Hood LLC advises consumers to check the FDA’s website for ongoing updates about the recall.
For questions or additional assistance, contact HP Hood Consumer Affairs at 800-242-2423 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. ET).
Why This Recall Matters for Allergy Safety
Undeclared allergens in food products are a significant concern, as they can lead to unintentional exposure and severe allergic reactions. Even trace amounts of almonds could trigger symptoms such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis in those with nut allergies. This recall helps ensure consumer safety by removing potentially harmful products from shelves.
The absence of almond allergen labeling makes this issue particularly serious. Accurate product labels are essential for helping individuals with food sensitivities make informed choices.
How the Contamination Was Identified
The potential almond contamination was discovered during routine maintenance checks at the production facility. These checks are part of standard food safety practices to ensure quality and identify risks. In this instance, HP Hood’s quality control team detected trace amounts of almonds and promptly initiated the recall.
This process demonstrates the effectiveness of routine checks in identifying and addressing potential hazards before they reach consumers.
Stay Informed and Proactive
This recall serves as a reminder to regularly check the products you purchase, particularly if you or your loved ones have food allergies. If you have Lactaid milk at home, take a few moments to examine the packaging for the recall code. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety.
For more information, visit the FDA website for updates on the recall and a complete list of affected products and states. Your diligence can help protect you and your family from potential risks.
