Massive recall: 58 million pounds of corn dogs pulled from freezers nationwide
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For many of us, corn dogs are more than just a quick freezer snack—they’re a comfort food, a nostalgic treat, or something we keep handy for the grandkids.
But every now and then, the foods we rely on for convenience end up in the spotlight for reasons we didn’t expect.
A recent announcement from federal food safety officials is raising alarms about a product that’s found its way into countless homes, schools, and even military facilities.
Millions of pounds are being pulled from shelves across the country, and it’s not because of taste or nutrition.
The issue involves an unusual hazard that has already caused injuries and sparked one of the largest recalls in recent memory.
The US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) confirmed that the recall covers products packaged between March 17, 2025, and September 26, 2025.
These include familiar items sold in retail stores, food service outlets, school cafeterias, and Department of Defense facilities.
The issue stems from wooden sticks meant to hold the corn dogs.
Instead of serving as handles, some sticks ended up in the batter, baking into the product itself.
Because of this, consumers may find hard wood pieces inside the snack—a dangerous risk for anyone eating them.
Five injuries have already been reported.
Hillshire’s internal review traced the problem to its production line.
A mechanical mishap allowed sticks to fall into the batter before cooking, turning a convenience food into a safety concern.
The affected items can be identified by establishment numbers “EST-582” or “P-894” on the packaging.
If you find these codes, FSIS advises taking immediate action.
Food recalls aren’t new, but this one is remarkable for its scale.
With 58 million pounds distributed nationwide, the chance that these products are sitting in freezers right now is high.
Schools, military facilities, and retailers all received shipments, making the reach even broader.
This case is also a reminder that even long-trusted brands can face safety issues.
As food supply chains grow more complex, one small error can spread across the country and reach millions of homes.
If you or someone you know has eaten these products and experienced an injury, seek medical attention right away.
Foodborne hazards can affect anyone, but older adults are especially vulnerable.
A small piece of wood that might seem minor could lead to serious complications.
Staying vigilant about recalls is one way to help protect both yourself and loved ones.
And since many older adults are the ones preparing meals for family visits, it’s important to make sure what’s served is safe.
FSIS will conduct recall effectiveness checks to confirm that Hillshire is properly alerting customers and removing products from shelves.
Updates, including lists of affected retailers, will continue to appear online.
Hillshire has also opened its customer care line at 888-747-7611 for anyone with questions.
If you think you were injured, contact your doctor and file a report with the USDA.
At The GrayVine, we know that sharing information can make a real difference.
Check your freezer, alert friends and family, and let’s all look out for one another when it comes to food safety.
Read next:
Have you ever found something unexpected in your food? How do you keep track of recalls, and what advice would you share with others in our community? Share your experience in the comments—your story could help someone else avoid a dangerous situation.
But every now and then, the foods we rely on for convenience end up in the spotlight for reasons we didn’t expect.
A recent announcement from federal food safety officials is raising alarms about a product that’s found its way into countless homes, schools, and even military facilities.
Millions of pounds are being pulled from shelves across the country, and it’s not because of taste or nutrition.
The issue involves an unusual hazard that has already caused injuries and sparked one of the largest recalls in recent memory.
Families are being urged to check their freezers after a nationwide corn dog recall affecting millions of products. Image Source: Pexels / Nadin Sh.
What’s going on with Hillshire’s corn dogs?
The US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) confirmed that the recall covers products packaged between March 17, 2025, and September 26, 2025.
These include familiar items sold in retail stores, food service outlets, school cafeterias, and Department of Defense facilities.
The issue stems from wooden sticks meant to hold the corn dogs.
Instead of serving as handles, some sticks ended up in the batter, baking into the product itself.
Because of this, consumers may find hard wood pieces inside the snack—a dangerous risk for anyone eating them.
Five injuries have already been reported.
Also read: FDA issues new recall alert—here’s what to check in your kitchen
How did this happen?
Hillshire’s internal review traced the problem to its production line.
A mechanical mishap allowed sticks to fall into the batter before cooking, turning a convenience food into a safety concern.
The affected items can be identified by establishment numbers “EST-582” or “P-894” on the packaging.
If you find these codes, FSIS advises taking immediate action.
Also read: Salmonella outbreak prompts expanded frozen vegetable recall
Why this recall is a big deal
Food recalls aren’t new, but this one is remarkable for its scale.
With 58 million pounds distributed nationwide, the chance that these products are sitting in freezers right now is high.
Schools, military facilities, and retailers all received shipments, making the reach even broader.
This case is also a reminder that even long-trusted brands can face safety issues.
As food supply chains grow more complex, one small error can spread across the country and reach millions of homes.
Recalled packages can be identified by the establishment numbers ‘EST-582’ or ‘P-894’ printed on the label.Image Source: USDA.
Also read: This canned beverage is under recall—here’s why
What should you do right now?
- Check your freezer: Look for Hillshire corn dog or sausage-on-a-stick products with establishment numbers “EST-582” or “P-894,” printed near the nutrition label or box flap.
- Do not eat them: Even if the product looks fine, wood pieces can cause injuries to the mouth, throat, or digestive system.
- Dispose or return: Throw them away or take them back to the store for a refund.
- Spread the word: Let family, friends, and neighbors know—especially if they serve kids or larger groups.
If you or someone you know has eaten these products and experienced an injury, seek medical attention right away.
Also read: A major recall could affect thousands of popular trucks—here’s what drivers should know
How to stay informed about food recalls
- Sign up for alerts: The USDA and FDA both provide recall alerts by email or text. You can register at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.
- Check before you cook: Before preparing older freezer items, take a moment to check the USDA recall list or the brand’s website.
- Report problems: If you find a foreign object in your food, use the FSIS online complaint form at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/ or call their hotline at 888-674-6854.
Also read: FDA announces food recall affecting multiple Dollar General products
Why food safety matters—especially for older adults
Foodborne hazards can affect anyone, but older adults are especially vulnerable.
A small piece of wood that might seem minor could lead to serious complications.
Staying vigilant about recalls is one way to help protect both yourself and loved ones.
And since many older adults are the ones preparing meals for family visits, it’s important to make sure what’s served is safe.
Also read: Sweet treat recall issued across 20 states—check your pantry
What’s next for Hillshire and the recall?
FSIS will conduct recall effectiveness checks to confirm that Hillshire is properly alerting customers and removing products from shelves.
Updates, including lists of affected retailers, will continue to appear online.
Hillshire has also opened its customer care line at 888-747-7611 for anyone with questions.
If you think you were injured, contact your doctor and file a report with the USDA.
At The GrayVine, we know that sharing information can make a real difference.
Check your freezer, alert friends and family, and let’s all look out for one another when it comes to food safety.
Read next:
- Popular coffee brand issues recall over unexpected contamination risk
- A popular snack is under recall—check your pantry before you grab a bite
- FDA issues recall for over 64,000 pounds of butter
Have you ever found something unexpected in your food? How do you keep track of recalls, and what advice would you share with others in our community? Share your experience in the comments—your story could help someone else avoid a dangerous situation.
