An unexpected recall has left consumers in Alabama and Tennessee cautious after discovering that Englewood Cannery’s spaghetti sauce contains an undeclared egg allergen.
At a Glance
- Englewood Cannery recalls spaghetti sauce in Alabama and Tennessee due to undeclared egg allergen.
- A total of 240 jars are affected and traceable through specific lot codes.
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified this as a Class II recall.
- Undeclared allergens account for 40% of FDA food recalls.
Recall Details
Englewood Cannery from Tennessee announced a recall for its 16-ounce Traditional Country Canning Spaghetti Sauce. The recall stems from the discovery of an undeclared egg allergen, potentially affecting consumers who may suffer from allergic reactions. This issue impacts 240 units distributed specifically across Alabama and Tennessee, identified through unique lot codes.
The FDA has categorized this as a Class II recall, a situation indicating the possibility of temporary or medically reversible health effects. While the risk of severe health consequences remains minimal, the alert emphasizes the importance of ingredient disclosure on food labels, as eggs are one of the nine major allergens that must be declared in the U.S.
Consumer Guidance
Consumers who possess the affected products should be vigilant for allergic reactions such as hives, swelling, or in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Darin Detwiler advises, “First and foremost, get medical help to address your symptoms and ensure your health and safety” should symptoms manifest.
Understanding that undeclared allergens are the leading cause of FDA and FSIS recalls underlines the necessity for transparency and thoroughness in food labeling.
Englewood Cannery urges consumers to notify the FDA and local health departments should they experience any reactions: “…notify the FDA and local health departments about your illness or allergic reaction,” says Detwiler. He also advised that the product’s packaging be retained for further investigation.
Implications of Labeling Errors
The recall comes as part of a broader problem where undeclared allergens account for 40% of food recall announcements by the FDA and FSIS. Past recalls, including Wegmans chicken salad and Aunt Millie’s Bakehouse products, illustrate the ongoing challenge faced by manufacturers in preventing labeling errors.
A Class II recall is “a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote,” as categorized by the FDA.
The importance of continued monitoring and stringent quality controls in food production cannot be overstated, as manufacturers strive to minimize the risk of allergen mislabeling in food products. Recognizing these issues will aid in bolstering consumer confidence and safeguarding public health.
