Major Recall Alert: Mystery Ingredient Causes Widespread Sandwich Withdrawal

The FDA’s recent Class I recall illustrates a serious oversight with significant health implications.

Key Insights

Nearly 12,000 chicken salad sandwiches are recalled due to undeclared milk allergens
Milk ranks among the major allergens identified by the FDA
Products were distributed in Georgia and South Carolina between December 2024 and March 2025
The error was detected during an FDA routine inspection
Recall is conducted under FDA oversight

Recall Details

Nearly 12,000 chicken salad sandwiches from Cromer Food Services Inc. are under a Class I recall. The issue is the undeclared presence of milk, a significant allergen not listed on the product label. The sandwiches are distributed in 4.3-ounce packages with UPCs 31166 and 13172, bearing use-by dates from January 3 to April 2, 2025. The recall, affecting lots distributed between December 26, 2024, and March 24, 2025, extends across Georgia and South Carolina.

The FDA discovered this labeling error during a routine inspection, resulting in an immediate response. Classified as a Class I recall, it signals that these products could pose a serious health risk to unsuspecting consumers with milk allergies. This emphasizes the urgent need for accurate food labeling. Cromer Food Services voluntarily recalled the products following the FDA’s findings.

#Newsweek contacted #CromerFoodServices , the company that initiated the #Recall, via phonecall for comment earlier on Tuesday.#FDA #Food #Safety #Warning #Update pic.twitter.com/nEuLMvgE0S

— Londie's Catering & Delivery Service (@ChefLondie) April 23, 2025

Health Implications

Milk is a recognized major allergen by the FDA, associated with potential serious reactions, including anaphylaxis. Although no illnesses have been reported thus far, the risk to individuals with allergies remains significant. The sandwich bread’s label failed to declare milk, posing a hazard for those with milk sensitivities. Consumers are advised to return or dispose of the affected products safely.

“Even with the best efforts that people when they are trying to avoid ingesting foods, accidental ingestions happen and reactions happen. And every three minutes in the United States, someone ends up in an emergency room because of an allergic reaction after accidental ingestion of food. So even when we try hard, these reactions are happening. And if you look at the incidence of anaphylaxis, it has skyrocketed in the last 5, 10, 20 years. In the US, there’s like a 300-400% increase in the rates of anaphylaxis to foods,” explained Dr. Sebastian Linghvani.

Consumer Action

The products were available primarily in vending machines and Micro Markets, emphasizing the widespread risk to consumer safety. The recall is overseen by the FDA, ensuring adherence to safety protocols. Customers affected by this recall can contact Cromer Food Services, Inc. at 1-800-922-3174 for further assistance or inquiries. The prompt response and voluntary recall highlight the industry’s responsibility to prioritize public health and consumer protection.

The Need for Vigilance

The recall underscores the necessity for meticulous food labeling and consumer awareness, particularly regarding potential allergens. The FDA’s action reflects an ongoing commitment to protecting public health, emphasizing vigilance at each step of the food production and distribution process. By ensuring that products are correctly labeled, companies can prevent allergic reactions and avoid future recalls that threaten consumer safety.