Chocolate lovers, beware: Recall issued in 8 states over allergy risk
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A recent announcement is shaking up snack drawers across several parts of the country.
While many rely on a sweet indulgence for a daily pick-me-up, one specific batch may be doing more harm than good.
Health officials are now urging certain consumers to act quickly and check what’s in their cupboards.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, even familiar favorites can carry unexpected risks.
Mellace Family Brands California, Inc. has issued a recall for Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils.
The reason? Some containers were found to contain undeclared milk allergens, which can cause life-threatening reactions in individuals with milk allergies.
The recall affects 18.5-ounce packages sold exclusively at Wegmans locations in 8 states and 1 district, which are:
States:
This action was prompted by a temporary breakdown in the supplier’s manufacturing process, which allowed milk to enter batches that were not labeled accordingly.
While milk might seem harmless to most, it can cause anaphylaxis in allergic individuals.
This reaction can lead to hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and, in severe cases, can be fatal without immediate treatment.
Dr. Sebastian Lighvani, Policy Director of New York Allergy & Asthma PLLC, emphasized the danger:
“Every three minutes in the United States, someone ends up in an emergency room because of an allergic reaction after accidental ingestion of food.”
He also noted that anaphylaxis rates from food have surged 300 to 400 percent in recent decades—making allergy awareness more critical than ever.
Also read: Double recall alert: FDA flags health risks in popular seafood items
So far, no illnesses have been reported related to the recalled chocolate as of June 30.
But health officials and the company are taking no chances given the potential severity of the allergen exposure.
If you or someone you know experiences symptoms after eating the product, seek medical help immediately.
You can also report reactions directly to the FDA via its online complaint system.
For questions or concerns, consumers may contact Wegmans Food Markets at 1-855-934-3663, available daily from 8 AM to 8 PM ET.
Also read: FDA issues recall alert for popular frozen item found in ALDI stores
Milk is one of the top allergens in the United States.
Undeclared allergens like milk remain a top reason for food recalls each year.
Even with safety measures in place, labeling mistakes still occur, making vigilance essential.
That’s why regularly checking packaging—even on familiar products—is a must.
It only takes one mistake to cause a serious health scare.
And while chocolate is a small joy for many, for those with food allergies, awareness is everything.
Read next: Are you risking your life with your favorite chocolate? Urgent recall issued—Check if yours is on the list!
Do you or someone in your household have a food allergy? Have you ever faced a surprise ingredient that turned risky? We’d love to hear your tips and experiences in the comments—especially from those keeping an eye out for safer sweet options.
While many rely on a sweet indulgence for a daily pick-me-up, one specific batch may be doing more harm than good.
Health officials are now urging certain consumers to act quickly and check what’s in their cupboards.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, even familiar favorites can carry unexpected risks.
Mellace Family Brands California, Inc. has issued a recall for Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils.
The reason? Some containers were found to contain undeclared milk allergens, which can cause life-threatening reactions in individuals with milk allergies.
The recall affects 18.5-ounce packages sold exclusively at Wegmans locations in 8 states and 1 district, which are:
States:
- Delaware
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
- Virginia
- Washington, D.C.
Mellace Family Brands California, Inc. has issued a recall for Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils. Image Source: Instacart
What to look for on your packaging:
- Product: Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils
- UPC: 0 77890 49787 6
- Best By and Lot Codes:
- 55021 BEST BY: DECEMBER 28, 2025
- 55031 BEST BY: DECEMBER 29, 2025
- 55491 BEST BY: FEBRUARY 13, 2026
- 55501 BEST BY: FEBRUARY 14, 2026
- 56061 BEST BY: APRIL 11, 2026
- 56071 BEST BY: APRIL 12, 2026
This action was prompted by a temporary breakdown in the supplier’s manufacturing process, which allowed milk to enter batches that were not labeled accordingly.
While milk might seem harmless to most, it can cause anaphylaxis in allergic individuals.
This reaction can lead to hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and, in severe cases, can be fatal without immediate treatment.
Dr. Sebastian Lighvani, Policy Director of New York Allergy & Asthma PLLC, emphasized the danger:
“Every three minutes in the United States, someone ends up in an emergency room because of an allergic reaction after accidental ingestion of food.”
He also noted that anaphylaxis rates from food have surged 300 to 400 percent in recent decades—making allergy awareness more critical than ever.
Also read: Double recall alert: FDA flags health risks in popular seafood items
So far, no illnesses have been reported related to the recalled chocolate as of June 30.
But health officials and the company are taking no chances given the potential severity of the allergen exposure.
If you or someone you know experiences symptoms after eating the product, seek medical help immediately.
You can also report reactions directly to the FDA via its online complaint system.
For questions or concerns, consumers may contact Wegmans Food Markets at 1-855-934-3663, available daily from 8 AM to 8 PM ET.
Also read: FDA issues recall alert for popular frozen item found in ALDI stores
Milk is one of the top allergens in the United States.
Undeclared allergens like milk remain a top reason for food recalls each year.
Even with safety measures in place, labeling mistakes still occur, making vigilance essential.
That’s why regularly checking packaging—even on familiar products—is a must.
It only takes one mistake to cause a serious health scare.
And while chocolate is a small joy for many, for those with food allergies, awareness is everything.
Read next: Are you risking your life with your favorite chocolate? Urgent recall issued—Check if yours is on the list!
