Chocolate is one of the most consumed products in the United States, with an annual average of approximately 11 lbs. (5 kg) per person. This sweet treat is an essential part of the diet and popular culture, and its production is strictly regulated to ensure consumer safety. However, despite these strict regulations, a serious problem was recently detected with a batch of chocolates that has put the FDA on alert.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an urgent notice after discovering that certain chocolates contained an undeclared allergen. The problem affects Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils, manufactured by Mellace Family Brands California, Inc., based in Warren, Ohio. The alert was issued to prevent possible severe or even potentially fatal allergic reactions, especially in people with milk allergies.
Product recall and the scope of the problem
The recall affects products distributed in Wegmans supermarkets in eight states in the United States: Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington D.C. These chocolates were packaged without the proper warning about the presence of milk, which poses a significant risk for consumers with allergies.
According to the FDA, the origin of the problem was due to a temporary failure in the supplier's manufacturing process. Therefore, it was detected that these Nonpareils contain milk, but the packaging did not indicate it. The agency emphasizes that those who consume these products without knowing they contain milk could suffer severe allergic reactions or even put their lives at risk.
The affected products are sold in plastic containers and are identified with the following lot codes and best by dates:
- 55021 (Best By: December 28, 2025)
- 55031 (Best By: December 29, 2025)
- 55491 (Best By: February 13, 2026)
- 55501 (Best By: February 14, 2026)
- 56061 (Best By: April 11, 2026)
- 56071 (Best By: April 12, 2026)
These codes are printed on the left side of the containers to make identification easier for consumers. People who have purchased these products are advised not to consume them and to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
The importance of paying attention to safety alerts
In 2024, the United States recorded more than 2,400 product recalls in different sectors, including food, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and automobiles. In the food industry alone, recalls increased by 112.7% compared to the previous year, according to data from Sedgwick.
This increase highlights the importance of consumers paying attention to FDA notices. The agency keeps a public and accessible database where citizens can check alerts and product recalls to avoid health risks. Currently, the Wegmans chocolate recall is one of the most recent and notable notices.