Recently, a large number of candies are being recalled by major selling joints like Walmart and Target. The reason for the recall has been stated to be possible contamination of salmonella. Due to these fears, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has increased the recall to Class I from the previously categorically stated one. The candies are manufactured by Palmer Candy Company, and they include a large number of confectionery products. The following article contains detailed information about the affected products, the reasons for the recall, and what consumers should do.
Background on the recall
The recall was first reported as a concern on May 6, 2024, with Palmer Candy Company discovering the potential contamination in their white-coated confectionery products. However, the FDA updated this to a Class I concern on August 6. This means there is a positive chance of exposure to the contaminated products that will lead to serious adverse health consequences or death, especially for susceptible populations like young children, older adults, and those who have compromised immune systems.
The cause of the contamination has been linked back to dairy powders within the candy coating, which were purchased from another vendor. Although 30 products are being recalled, the potential for an outbreak has not yet materialized, and there have been no reports of illness associated with the recalled products thus far.
A list of the impacted products and brands
The recall impacts nearly 30 products across several band names. Overall, the products that are being recalled are somewhat limited to a few key types:
- Caramel Swirl Pretzels (4 oz and 6 oz)
- Classic Yogurt Pretzels (28 oz)
- Cookies & Cream Yummy Chow (14 oz)
- Drizzled Caramel Corn (5 oz and 12 oz)
- Enrobed Pretzel Rods (8 oz)
- Zebra Fudge Cookies (7 oz)
- Strawberry Yogurt Coated Pretzels (10 oz)
- Sweet Smiles Yogurt Covered Pretzels (3.25oz)
- Vanilla Yoghurt Covered Pretzels (10 oz)
- Snackin’ with the Crew! Tiger Treats (7 oz)
These are distributed and sold under various decent brand names such as: Favorite Day Bakery to Target Freshness Guaranteed to Walmart Other brands are Sweet Smiles, Casey’s, Sconza Chocolates and Kwik Trip Inc.
Distribution and availability
The affected products were distributed through 17 states into wholesaler channels in Alabama, California, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Although states from New England are not included as part of the affected areas on the notice of recall, the national distribution implies that it is predictable for consumers across the nation to have bought the products from some form of retailer across the U.S.
The FDA advised that consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Of course, the FDA additionally advised consumers to check their pantries for these products, especially those showing best by dates extending into 2025.
Health risks associated with salmonella
Salmonella is a harmful bacteria that can cause very serious illness in the gastrointestinal system, known as salmonellosis. Symptoms usually appear from 6 hours to 6 days after contact and include:
- Diarrhea (which could contain blood)
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
An infected person may experience such symptoms up to the present day. Healthy people usually recover from the symptoms within 1 week, but in some cases, an infected individual can develop a severe or life-threatening disease. Symptoms could cause the person to become dehydrated and need medical assistance, especially trouble continuing or worsening the symptoms.
The CDC reminds us that whenever salmonella infections are contracted through contaminated food or water, the infections spread the fastest. It would be most useful to practice the proper food preservation and usual measures in hygiene to prevent getting infected that way.
Consumers’ vigilance and awareness
The recent recall of candy that was affecting products sold at Walmart and Target further emphasizes the need for consumers to be extremely vigilant concerning safety in their food. The FDA upgraded this recall to a Class I level, so consumers should really seek the appropriate precautions to keep themselves safe and healthy.
Consumers are encouraged to compare their purchases with the list of voluntarily recalled products and return them to the store for a refund. It is of great necessity that consumers receive the pertinent updates on officially available information from the FDA and retailers themselves. One can be very proactive in these matters of high risk concerning contaminated food products.
