Palmer Candy has issued a significant recall of its white-coated confectionary products due to potential Salmonella contamination, impacting approximately 37,000 cases distributed across Texas and New Mexico. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall on Friday, highlighting the potential health risks associated with the contaminated products.
The affected items include Palmer Candy's Chocolate Caramel Corn and Candy Trays, which were sold in several stores, including Albertsons Market, Amigos, Market Street, and United. These products were manufactured between May 9, 2023, and May 8, 2024, and can be identified by their lot codes: 20942400000 and 20647600000. Consumers who have purchased these items are urged to dispose of them or return them to the store for a full refund.
"Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems," the FDA stated. "Healthy individuals infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain."
No illnesses related to the consumption of these products have been reported thus far. However, the FDA advises that symptoms of Salmonella infection, or salmonellosis, can appear between six hours and six days after consuming contaminated food. The infection typically lasts four to seven days, with most people recovering without treatment. In severe cases, Salmonella can enter the bloodstream and cause more serious conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis, and arthritis.
The recall was initiated after Palmer Candy's supplier notified the company about potential Salmonella contamination in an ingredient used in the white-coated confectionary items. "We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience or concern this may cause and assure our customers that we are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and quality of our products," Palmer Candy said in a statement.
Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Albertsons Companies' Customer Service Center at 1-877-723-3929, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. CST. Palmer Candy can also be reached directly at 1-800-831-0828, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST.
This recall is part of a broader trend in food safety concerns in the U.S. According to the insurance group Sedgwick, the number of recalls across various industries, including food and drink, reached its highest single-quarter total in over five years at the beginning of 2024, with 909 recalls reported.
Palmer Candy's recall follows several other food product recalls due to Salmonella contamination, emphasizing the need for stringent quality control measures in the food industry. The FDA's recall list includes a wide range of products from different manufacturers, highlighting the pervasive nature of such contamination risks.
The recalled products were distributed in numerous states, including Alabama, California, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The brand names affected by the recall include Freshness Guaranteed, Palmer, Sweet Smiles, Snackin' With The Crew, Casey's, Sconza Chocolates, Favorite Day Bakery, Sunny Select, Urge!, and Kwik Trip Inc.
Consumers are advised to check their pantry for any of the recalled products and follow the FDA's guidance on disposal or returns. The safety and well-being of consumers remain the top priority as companies and regulatory bodies work together to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure the integrity of the food supply chain.
