Taco kit mix-up prompts nationwide recall, affecting multiple states

A major recall has been issued for certain taco dinner kits that could pose a serious health risk to millions of Americans with food allergies or sensitivities.

What seemed like a simple mix-up in packaging could actually lead to severe allergic reactions, especially for those avoiding milk.

A packaging mix-up with serious consequences​

Teasdale Foods, Inc. has issued a recall for several popular taco dinner kits sold under the Martin’s, Giant, and Casa Mamita brands. Some of these kits may contain undeclared milk, a major allergen that can cause severe or even life-threatening reactions in sensitive individuals.

Here’s the twist: Instead of the usual taco seasoning, some kits were accidentally packed with cocoa mix packets that contain milk. Imagine expecting a zesty taco and getting a surprise dose of hot chocolate mix instead! While it might sound like a quirky mix-up, for those with milk allergies, it’s no laughing matter.

Why this recall is a big deal​

Food recalls are more common than you might think, but this one stands out because it involves one of the nine “major” food allergens identified by the FDA. Milk allergies affect millions of Americans, and reactions can range from mild discomfort to anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal condition.

The FDA and Teasdale Foods are urging anyone with a milk allergy or sensitivity to steer clear of these products. Even if you don’t have an allergy yourself, you might have family or friends who do, so it’s important to check your pantry and spread the word.

Which products are affected?​

No illnesses have been reported so far, but the recall is a proactive step to keep everyone safe.

Image source: Simply Recipes / Retailers

Where were these kits sold?​

The affected taco kits were distributed to stores across 31 states and the District of Columbia. If you shop at ALDI, Giant, or Martin's stores in any of the following states, you should check your pantry:

Eastern States: Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia

Southern States: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee

Midwestern States: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin

According to Teasdale Foods, the issue started when a third-party supplier mislabeled the seasoning packets. Instead of taco seasoning, some kits got cocoa mix packets containing milk. The packaging didn’t mention milk, so consumers with allergies had no way of knowing the risk. The company acted after receiving consumer complaints and launched an investigation, which led to the recall.

Also read: Man’s $15 Taco Bell trick shows how to order the perfect haul

What should you do if you have one of these kits?​

If you have purchased either of the recalled taco dinner kits, take these steps immediately:

If you have questions or concerns, you can contact Teasdale Foods directly at [email protected].

Read next:

• Massive 5 million pound chicken recall: Find out if your dinner is affected
• Massive recall issued for popular pork jerky over dangerous metal contamination
• Unexpected recall hits beloved chocolate treat sold in stores across 14 states

Key Takeaways

• Certain Martin’s and Giant Crunchy Taco Dinner Kits, as well as Casa Mamita Soft Taco Dinner Kits, have been recalled in the US due to the presence of undeclared milk, which can cause serious allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to dairy.
• The recall was prompted by consumer complaints after cocoa mix packets containing milk were found inside taco kit boxes due to a mislabeling error by a third-party seasoning supplier.
• The affected taco kits were distributed to ALDI, Giant, and Martin’s stores across several US states; however, no illnesses have been reported so far.
• Customers are advised to return the recalled taco kits to the place of purchase for a full refund and can contact Teasdale Foods, Inc. for further information.

Have you ever experienced a food recall? How do you keep track of food safety alerts? Do you have tips for managing food allergies in your household?