Is your favorite Halloween candy putting you at risk? Two popular bars recalled over “life-threatening” allergen

Halloween is the season for sweet nostalgia, glowing pumpkins, and candy bowls brimming with colorful wrappers. But this year, before the little ones reach for their favorite chocolate bars, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a serious warning. Two popular candy bars have been pulled from shelves due to a “life-threatening” allergen concern that could put some families at risk.

The recall putting Halloween candy lovers on alert​

Zingerman’s Candy Manufactory, a beloved Michigan-based confectioner known for its gourmet sweets, has issued a voluntary recall of two of its signature candy bars: the Peanut Butter Crush Bar and the Cashew Cow Bar. The reason? Some bars were found to contain undeclared cashews and peanuts—two of the most common and dangerous food allergens.

For those with nut allergies, even a tiny amount of exposure can trigger severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, which can be fatal if not treated immediately. The FDA’s warning comes at a critical time, with Halloween just days away and candy bowls everywhere about to overflow.

The candy bars affected by the recall​

Here’s what you need to look out for in your candy stash or at your local store:

• Peanut Butter Crush Bars in yellow and purple 2 oz boxes (Lot #174250)
  
• Cashew Cow Bars in light blue and yellow 2 oz boxes (Lot #174250)

The recalled candy bars were distributed to retailers in Michigan and New York. If you live in or have visited these states recently, or if you have family or friends who might have sent you a sweet treat from there, double-check your candy supply.

Image source: Zingerman's Candy

Also read: Unexpected recall hits beloved chocolate treat sold in stores across 14 states

The cause of the labeling mix-up​

According to Zingerman’s, the issue was the result of a “temporary breakdown in the production and packaging processes.” The labels didn’t mention the presence of cashews and peanuts, leaving those with allergies in the dark about the potential danger.

The good news? So far, no illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported. But the recall is a crucial step to prevent any possible harm.

Also read: Trick-or-treat for grown-ups: Your ultimate guide to scoring free & cheap Halloween goodies this year

What to do if you purchased the recalled candy​

If you’ve purchased either of the recalled bars, don’t take any chances. Here’s what to do:

• Do Not Eat the Candy – Even if you don’t have a nut allergy, someone in your household or a trick-or-treater might.
• Return the Product – Take the candy back to the store where you bought it for a full refund.
• Contact Zingerman’s – For more information or to initiate a return, call Zingerman’s customer service at 877-632-9264.

This recall serves as a timely reminder of the importance of being vigilant about food allergies, especially during holidays like Halloween, when candy is readily available. According to Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), about 1 in 13 children in the US has a food allergy, and nuts are among the most common culprits.

Read next:

• FDA announces nationwide recall of over 580,000 bottles of blood pressure medication
• Taco kit mix-up prompts nationwide recall, affecting multiple states
• Massive 5 million pound chicken recall: Find out if your dinner is affected

Key Takeaways

• Two Zingerman’s candy bars have been recalled just before Halloween due to undeclared cashews and peanuts, which could pose a life-threatening risk to those with allergies.
• The affected products are Peanut Butter Crush Bars and Cashew Cow Bars, both from lot #174250, sold in specific colored packaging.
• The recalled bars were distributed to retailers in Michigan and New York, according to the FDA.
• Customers who purchased the affected bars can return them to the place of purchase for a refund and can contact Zingerman’s for more information.

Have you ever had to deal with a food recall or allergy scare? Do you have tips for making Halloween safer for everyone?