Nuts Recall Update as FDA Sets Risk Level - Newsweek

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A batch of recalled Wegmans nuts has been issued a Class II risk classification by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

United Natural Trading Inc., doing business as Woodstock Farms, issued a voluntary recall for Wegmans organic dry roasted salted almonds in January because they were labeled incorrectly as cashews on the back. They were labeled correctly on the front.

Newsweek has contacted United Natural Trading Inc. for comment.

People can have nut allergies to almonds and not other tree nuts, such as hazelnuts, cashews and walnuts.

Those with an allergy or severe sensitivity to almonds run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

"Food allergic reactions vary in severity from mild symptoms involving hives and lip swelling to severe, life-threatening symptoms, often called anaphylaxis, that may involve fatal respiratory problems and shock," the FDA said.

The initial recall was issued through the FDA on January 6, but the agency revealed its risk classification on Thursday.

A Class II risk classification refers to a situation in which the "use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote."

In comparison, Class I refers to "a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death."

Class III refers to "a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences."

A total of 404 cases of the product (with 12 bags per case) were impacted by the initial recall. The products had the lot number 24305, and a best-by date of July 28 this year.

The nuts came in 12 oz. clear bags, and were distributed to Pennsylvania, Virginia and New York.

United Natural Trading Inc. said: "The back label states Organic Cashews. The front product label states Wegmans Organic unsalted dry roasted almonds. The front label is the correct label for this product."

The Children's Allergy Doctors said: "Peanuts and tree nuts are responsible for the most severe food-related allergic reactions, including life-threatening (anaphylactic reaction) or even fatal reactions."

The FDA and United Natural Trading Inc. will continue monitoring the impact of the mislabelling and whether any adverse reactions are reported.

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