In a significant announcement, the FDA has issued a high-level recall for Terrafina Golden Raisins due to severe health risks associated with undeclared sulfites.
At a Glance
- The FDA has classified the recall as high risk due to undeclared sulfites.
- Undeclared sulfites can cause life-threatening allergic reactions.
- The recall affects two batches of Terrafina Golden Raisins distributed in several states.
- Consumers are advised not to consume the product and return it for a full refund.
A Critical Recall Announcement
On August 26, Sunco & Frenchie LLC initiated a recall of two batches of their 10oz Terrafina Golden Raisins, classified by the FDA as posing high health risks. These raisins were found to contain undeclared sulfites, substances that can provoke life-threatening reactions, especially in those with allergies or severe sensitivities to sulfites.
The recalled golden raisins were distributed in many stores in several states, packaged in clear plastic containers with bright orange labels. They have a UPC number of 847938001385 and “Best If Used By” dates of “05/2025” or “08/2025.”
The affected Lot numbers are GRA240602 and GDR240901. Routine sampling and laboratory analysis by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors led to this discovery.
Severe Health Risks from Sulfites
Sulfites are commonly used as preservatives in food manufacturing and occur naturally in some foods and wines. However, they can cause severe allergic reactions, including asthma attacks and anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include throat swelling, difficulty breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. These reactions can be fatal and require immediate treatment with an epinephrine injection (EpiPen).
Despite these dangers, sulfites are strangely, not listed among the FDA’s nine major food allergens. Other allergic reactions to sulfites can include rashes, hives, itching, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping.
Sunco & Frenchie Issues an Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites in Golden Raisins https://t.co/UleeVW5Ujg pic.twitter.com/DjiqX8IuwK
— U.S. FDA Recalls (@FDArecalls) August 27, 2024
Consumer Awareness and Product Safety
This recall underscores the importance of consumer awareness in product safety. The FDA advises consumers not to consume any products from these batches and to follow the recall instructions provided by the manufacturers. The FDA has announced multiple recalls this month across various product categories, emphasizing the need for strict quality control measures.
The CDC estimates that 1 in 6 Americans get sick from contaminated food or beverages annually, resulting in 3,000 deaths. The USDA estimates the cost of foodborne illnesses at $15.6 billion a year. Current issues with the U.S. food recall system include delays in tracking the source of contamination and slow recall issuance, often causing consumers to learn about recalls too late.
