FDA Announces Recall of Popular Chocolate Snack Due to Laceration Hazard

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a significant voluntary recall concerning Tru Fru, LLC, which is particularly alarming due to the potential health hazards associated with certain freeze-dried snacks. This recall, initiated by Georgia Nut Company—Tru Fru’s third-party manufacturer—came about after a consumer reported the potential for metal fragments being present in the products. This situation highlights the critical nature of food safety and the inherent risks consumers face, even with popular snack items.

Overview of the Recall

The affected products are specifically the Tru Fru freeze-dried offerings, including varieties such as Freeze-Dried Strawberries in Dark & White Chocolate and Freeze-Dried Strawberries & Crème. These snacks were widely distributed across major retail chains nationwide, such as Albertsons, CVS, Food Lion, H-E-B, and Target, making the recall particularly significant as it affects a large number of consumers.

Identifying the Affected Products

To determine whether you possess any of the recalled items, you will need to check the packaging for the 10-digit manufacturing code printed on the back. The codes to look for begin with certain combinations for various bag sizes as listed below:

1. Tru Fru Freeze Dried Strawberries in Dark & White Chocolate (3.4-ounce bag)

   • UPC: 850048358270
   • Item Number: 10300458
   • Manufacturing codes that begin with: 517B, 517C, 517D, 517E, 517F, 518D, 518E, 518F, 519A, 519B, 524A, 524B, 524C, 529C, 529D, 529E, 530C, 530D, 530E, 531A, 531B, 531C, 531D, 531E, 532A, 532B

2. Tru Fru Freeze Dried Strawberries in Dark & White Chocolate (1.7-ounce bag)

   • UPC: 850048358331
   • Item Number: 10300442
   • Manufacturing codes: 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D, 525A, 525B, 525C, 526B, 526C, 526D, 526E, 526F, 521C, 521D, 521E, 522B, 522C, 522D, 522E, 524D, 524E, 525A, 525B, 525C, 525D, 525E, 526A

3. Tru Fru Freeze Dried Strawberries in Dark & White Chocolate (13-ounce bag)

   • UPC: 850048358379
   • Item Number: 10300474
   • Manufacturing codes: 515A, 516B, 516C
4. Tru Fru Freeze Dried Strawberries & Crème (3.4-ounce bag)
   • UPC: 850048358249
   • Item Number: 10300455
   • Manufacturing codes: 520B, 520C, 520D, 520E, 520F, 521A, 524C, 524D, 524E

For visual clarity, affected product images have been made available on the FDA’s official site.

Consumer Advisory

If you find that you have purchased any of these recalled freeze-dried products, it is crucial to take immediate steps. Do not consume these products. Instead, disposal is recommended to prevent any potential health risks. For those seeking a refund, Tru Fru has established a simple online reimbursement system where customers can fill out a form for a coupon.

As of now, no injuries related to the recall have been reported. Nevertheless, the potential for ingesting sharp metal objects poses serious risks, including lacerations of internal tissues, damage to teeth, and possible gastrointestinal harm. If you suspect ingestion, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Importance of Food Safety

This incident underscores the vital role that food safety protocols play in the production and distribution of consumer goods. Food recalls can occur for various reasons—ranging from contamination to the presence of foreign materials, as seen in this case. The FDA continues to highlight that manufacturers hold the responsibility for ensuring their products meet safety standards. The vigilance of consumers also plays a pivotal role in identifying and reporting potential hazards, which, in this case, acted as a catalyst for the recall.

The swift action taken by Tru Fru and Georgia Nut Company reflects a commitment to consumer safety and adherence to regulatory practices. It is crucial for companies to maintain rigorous quality controls throughout their manufacturing processes to mitigate the likelihood of such hazards.

Conclusion

As consumers, we must remain informed and proactive about food safety issues. The recent recall of Tru Fru freeze-dried products serves as a potent reminder of the potential risks associated with seemingly benign snack items. Always check the packaging for recall information, and stay updated on any announcements from food safety authorities such as the FDA.

For further questions or concerns related to this recall, both customers and interested parties can reach out directly to Tru Fru’s customer service at (888) 293-7748 or via email at [email protected]. Awareness and prompt action can ensure safety and health for all consumers involved.

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