The FDA has initiated a critical recall of Cromer Food Services chicken salad sandwiches, propelling the importance of accurate allergen labeling into the spotlight.
Key Takeaways
- A recall has been issued for Cromer Food Services’ Chicken Salad Sandwich due to undeclared milk allergens.
- The recall impacts all lots of 4.3-ounce packages with UPC codes 31166 and 13172.
- Sandwiches were distributed between December 26, 2024, and March 24, 2025.
- No illnesses have been reported as part of this recall.
FDA Class I Recall Explained
The FDA announced a Class I recall for Cromer Food Services’ chicken salad sandwiches, declaring undeclared milk allergens. This recall affects nearly 12,000 units sold in Georgia and South Carolina through vending and micro market routes. The sandwiches come in 4.3-ounce packaging, labeled with UPCs 31166 and 13172, and use-by dates from January 3 to April 2, 2025.
The primary concern is the risk of severe allergic reactions from milk allergens not listed on the label. This oversight was discovered during an FDA inspection on March 25, 2025. The recall is conducted under the FDA’s authority, underscoring the critical need for precise allergen labeling to protect consumers with dietary allergies.
#Newsweek contacted #CromerFoodServices , the company that initiated the #Recall, via phonecall for comment earlier on Tuesday.#FDA #Food #Safety #Warning #Update pic.twitter.com/nEuLMvgE0S
— Londie's Catering & Delivery Service (@ChefLondie) April 23, 2025
Distribution and Impact
The affected sandwiches were distributed from December 26, 2024, to March 24, 2025. Their primary markets included Micro Markets and vending machines across Georgia and South Carolina. Though no illnesses have been reported, the precautionary recall is vital to prevent life-threatening allergic reactions among individuals sensitive to milk.
“Even with the best efforts that people when they are trying to avoid ingesting foods, accidental ingestions happen and reactions happen. And every three minutes in the United States, someone ends up in an emergency room because of an allergic reaction after accidental ingestion of food. So even when we try hard, these reactions are happening. And if you look at the incidence of anaphylaxis, it has skyrocketed in the last 5, 10, 20 years. In the US, there’s like a 300-400% increase in the rates of anaphylaxis to foods.” warned Dr. Sebastian Linghvani.
Consumers impacted by this recall are advised to return the sandwiches to their purchase location or dispose of them safely. Cromer Food Services, based in South Carolina, voluntarily initiated the recall on March 27 following the FDA’s inspection. For more information, Cromer Food Services can be contacted at 1-800-922-3174.
Allergen Awareness and Safety Measures
Milk is classified as a major allergen by the FDA, and it’s crucial for consumers who have dairy sensitivities to be aware of this recall. Undeclared allergens pose severe health risks, particularly leading to reactions ranging from mild skin issues to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
The FDA’s highest-risk classification for this recall, Class I, indicates how serious undeclared allergens can be. Such precision in labeling is paramount to avoiding unexpected health challenges for individuals with allergies. Awareness and vigilance remain crucial in preventing allergic reactions and ensuring consumer safety.
Sources:
- Sandwich Recall Sparks Warning to Customers – Newsweek
- Cromer Food Services recalls Chicken Salad on White Sandwich because of undeclared milk
- Cromer Food Services, Inc. Recalls Chicken Salad on White Sandwich Due to Undeclared Milk Allergen | FDA
- Sandwich Recall Update as FDA Sets Highest Risk Warning – Newsweek
