FDA elevates Quaker Oats pancake mix recall to highest level due to risk of death – These are the affected products

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised the recall of Pearl Milling Company’s pancake and waffle mix to its highest risk level. The recall originally began in January 2025 after it was discovered that some boxes of the mix contained undeclared milk.

In its most recent update, the FDA confirmed that this recall is now classified as a Class I recall, meaning the product poses a serious health risk. According to the FDA, a Class I recall applies when a product could cause severe health issues or even death if consumed.

The affected pancake mix was first sold on November 18, 2024, in select stores across 11 states. It was packaged in two-pound cardboard boxes with a UPC of 30000 65040 and a best-by date of September 13, 2025.

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Where was the pancake mix sold?

The recalled pancake mix was sold in the following states:

• Arkansas
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Nebraska
• Utah
• Wisconsin

This product was previously sold under the Aunt Jemima brand before being rebranded as Pearl Milling Company.

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The FDA warns that people with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity could suffer a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the mix. However, no allergic reactions have been reported so far.

In another recent class, I recall

The FDA has classified several other recent recalls as Class I, signaling high risk to consumers. Some examples include:

• Cal Yee Farm products – Five snack products, including Yogurt Coated Almonds and Dark Chocolate Raisins, were recalled for undeclared milk.
• New Orleans Hot Mix & Hot Cajun Sesame Sticks – These snacks contained undeclared wheat and soybean oil, which could trigger allergic reactions.
• Lay’s Classic Potato Chips – A limited number of 13 oz bags were recalled in December due to undeclared milk. The recall was later upgraded to Class I.

More food recalls in 2025

So far, 2025 has seen several nationwide food recalls. Earlier this month, over 2 million cases of baked goods from FGF, LLC were pulled from shelves due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

Additionally, Tri-Union Seafoods voluntarily recalled select canned tuna products under brands such as:

• Genova
• Van Camp’s
• H-E-B
• Trader Joe’s

These canned tuna products were sold at major retailers like Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Costco, Kroger, and Publix. The recall was issued after a supplier found a defect in the can’s “easy open” lids. The issue could cause leaks or contamination with Clostridium botulinum, a dangerous bacteria that can lead to botulism, a life-threatening illness.

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What to do if you have a recalled product

If you have purchased any of the recalled products, the FDA advises you to stop using them immediately. You can return the item to the store where you bought it for a refund or replacement. If you have any concerns about your health, contact a doctor right away.

For the latest recall updates, visit the FDA’s official website or check with the manufacturer.