Labeling Mistake Triggers Major Recall of Popular Chicken Sandwich

Torn paper revealing the word Recall in red

Cromer Food Services faces a serious FDA recall over chicken salad sandwiches due to undisclosed allergens.

Key Takeaways

  • A recall has been issued for Cromer Food Services Inc Chicken Salad on White Sandwich due to undeclared milk allergens.
  • The recall affects all lots of the product sold in 4.3 oz packages with UPC codes 31166 and 13172.
  • Affected products were distributed between December 26, 2024, and March 24, 2025.
  • The FDA has issued a Class I recall, the most severe risk classification.
  • No illnesses have been reported related to this recall.

FDA Class I Recall Issued

Cromer Food Services is currently under an FDA Class I recall following the discovery of undeclared milk in their chicken salad sandwiches. This critical recall classification highlights the potential danger, as milk is among the major allergens identified by the FDA. Failure to properly label the allergens poses serious health risks for consumers. Even though there have been no reported illnesses, the recall serves as a precautionary measure to prevent allergic reactions.

Distribution and Affected Products

The recall affects nearly 12,000 chicken salad sandwiches sold in Georgia and South Carolina. Packaged in 4.3 oz units with UPC codes 31166 and 13172, the sandwiches were distributed through vending machines and micro markets. Consumers are advised to either return the product to the place of purchase or dispose of it safely to avoid potential allergic reactions. The sandwiches were intended to be consumed by April 2, 2025.

Routine FDA Inspection

During a routine inspection on March 25, 2025, the FDA discovered the labeling error that led to the recall. The sandwiches contained undeclared milk in the bread, posing risks for individuals with milk allergies. The recall is being conducted under FDA oversight to ensure consumer safety. Cromer Food Services, based in South Carolina, voluntarily initiated the recall on March 27.

Consumer Guidance and Contact Information

Consumers affected by this recall are urged to avoid consuming the recalled sandwiches. They can contact Cromer Food Services at 1-800-922-3174 for any inquiries or additional information. The FDA’s proactive measures aim to mitigate risks and reinforce the importance of accurate allergen labeling to safeguard public health.

“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,” explained Dr. Sebastian Linghvani.

Sources:

  1. Sandwich Recall Sparks Warning to Customers – Newsweek
  2. Sandwich Recall Update as FDA Sets Highest Risk Warning – Newsweek

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