According to Newsweek, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of a gluten-free cake product after it was found to contain wheat and nuts, which were not declared on the label.
Product Details and Recall Information
The product in question is the “Mini Raspberry Lemon Coffee Cake,” manufactured by Macrina Bakery of Kent, Washington. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that 38 loaves of this cake were mislabeled.
- The mislabeled product was actually the “Mini Squash Harvest Loaf,” but it had been labeled as “Mini Raspberry Lemon Coffee Cake,” potentially exposing consumers to undeclared allergens.
- The affected product carries a universal product code (UPC) of 8 57297 00745 4 with a sell-by date of 09/17.
Allergens Involved and FDA Classification
The FDA reported that the recall involves undeclared walnut and wheat. Specifically, the “Mini Squash Harvest Loaf” (UPC 8 55324 00505 3) had been incorrectly labeled, and as a result, wheat flour and walnuts were not listed on the packaging.
- The FDA has categorized this as a Class II risk level. According to the FDA, a Class II recall indicates a situation where the use or exposure to the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, and the probability of serious adverse health consequences is considered remote.
Importance of Labeling and Allergen Risks
Wheat and tree nuts, including walnuts, are listed among the FDA’s major food allergens. Other common allergens include milk, eggs, fish, crustaceans, soybeans, peanuts, and sesame.
- Gluten, a protein found in wheat and related grains like barley and rye, is often avoided by individuals with Celiac disease, wheat allergies, or gluten intolerance.
- Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, leading to damage in the lining of the small intestine over time.
- Wheat allergies typically involve a more classic allergic response from the immune system.
Understanding Tree Nut Allergies
Walnut allergies fall under the category of tree nut allergies, which can include other nuts such as almonds, cashews, and pecans. In the case of a walnut allergy, the immune system mistakenly identifies walnut proteins as harmful, resulting in an allergic reaction.
- Most food allergy symptoms are mild, but in some cases, they can progress to anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening reaction.
- Symptoms of anaphylaxis include constricted airways, severe drop in blood pressure, and potential suffocation due to swelling of the throat and larynx.
Consumers are advised to be cautious and check product labels, especially if they have allergies or intolerances to wheat or nuts. If you have purchased the recalled product, you may contact Macrina Bakery for further information or guidance.
