Lactaid Milk Recall Sparks Concern Over Potential Almond Contamination in 27 States

Clear Facts

• HP Hood LLC has recalled five SKUs of 96-ounce containers of Lactaid milk due to potential allergen contamination.
• The recall affects products shipped to 27 states, including Alabama, Colorado, and Texas.
• The milk products may contain trace amounts of almond, posing a risk to those with nut allergies.

For those who are lactose intolerant, Lactaid milk has been a reliable alternative, offering the same nutritional benefits as regular milk without the lactose. However, recent developments necessitate a closer look at your refrigerator if you have recently purchased this product.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall notice for five SKUs of 96-ounce containers of Lactaid milk. The recall, initiated by HP Hood LLC, affects products distributed to retailers and wholesalers in 27 states, including Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

The recall specifically targets containers with the code 51-4109 P2 and a best-by date ranging from Nov. 22 to Dec. 5 of this year. The affected varieties include 96 oz Lactaid Whole Milk, 96 oz Lactaid 2% Milk, 96 oz Lactaid 1% Milk, 96 oz Lactaid Fat Free Milk, and 96 oz Lactaid 2% Calcium Enriched Milk. A comprehensive list of products and their respective best-by dates can be found in the FDA notice.

The FDA has cited allergen concerns as the reason for the recall. The milk products “may contain trace amounts of almond, which is not listed on the label.” This issue was discovered during “routine maintenance programs” that identified the potential presence of almonds.

“People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to almonds may run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products,” the recall notice states.

Tree nut allergies can manifest through various symptoms, including abdominal pain, cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, itchiness, hives, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is particularly concerning as it can be life-threatening, impairing breathing and sending the body into shock. Symptoms generally appear within minutes of consuming tree nuts.

As of the Sept. 20 notice, no illnesses related to the Lactaid recall have been reported. However, consumers who have purchased the recalled products are advised to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund or exchange. For further assistance, Hood Consumer Affairs can be contacted directly at 800-242-2423 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST), Monday through Friday.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Source