Lactaid Milk Recalled in 27 States Due to Almond Allergen Risk

HP Hood LLC, the company behind Lactaid products, has announced a voluntary recall of its lactose-free milk following the discovery of a potential almond allergen in some of its products.

The recall involves five varieties of 96-ounce Lactaid Milk containers that may contain trace amounts of almonds, which are not included on the product labels. This recall was shared in a statement published by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

According to the FDA, food labeling laws require that all major food allergens, including tree nuts like almonds, be clearly identified on packaging. Tree nut allergies are common and can lead to a range of symptoms that vary from mild to potentially life-threatening, as highlighted by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

The alert specifies that individuals with an allergy or severe sensitivity to almonds could face serious health risks if they consume the affected products. The potential contamination was discovered during routine maintenance checks at the dairy processing facility.

Fortunately, there have been no reported illnesses linked to this issue so far.

If you are wondering what specific Lactaid Milk products are affected by this recall, the FDA has identified the following items:

• 96-ounce Lactaid Whole Milk
• 96-ounce Lactaid 2% Milk
• 96-ounce Lactaid 1% Milk
• 96-ounce Lactaid Fat Free Milk
• 96-ounce 2% Calcium Enriched Milk

Customers in several states may be affected by this recall. The states listed where the recalled products have been sold include:

• Alabama
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• Nebraska
• New Jersey
• New York
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• Texas
• Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

Customers who have purchased recalled Lactaid Milk products should check the best by dates. The dates associated with each type of milk are as follows:

For 96-ounce Lactaid Whole Milk:

• Nov. 22, 2024
• Nov. 23, 2024
• Nov. 25, 2024
• Nov. 26, 2024
• Nov. 27, 2024
• Nov. 28, 2024
• Dec. 02, 2024
• Dec. 03, 2024
• Dec. 04, 2024

For 96-ounce Lactaid 2% Milk:

• Nov. 23, 2024
• Nov. 24, 2024
• Nov. 28, 2024
• Nov. 29, 2024
• Nov. 30, 2024
• Dec. 01, 2024
• Dec. 04, 2024

For 96-ounce Lactaid 1% Milk:

• Nov. 24, 2024
• Nov. 25, 2024
• Dec. 05, 2024

For 96-ounce Lactaid Fat Free Milk:

• Nov. 24, 2024
• Nov. 25, 2024

Finally, Lactaid customers are advised to return any recalled products to the store where they were purchased. They can also contact Hood Consumer Affairs for assistance at 800-242-2423 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET on weekdays.

Understanding tree nut allergies is important, especially for those affected by this recall. Tree nuts can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms of tree nut allergies can include abdominal pain, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and respiratory distress.

For individuals with tree nut allergies, it is essential to read labels carefully and be aware of any potential allergens in food products. Any uncertainty regarding a product’s safety should prompt consumers to avoid consumption. Taking such precautions can help ensure safety and prevent allergic reactions.

Source: USA TODAY