Thursday, January 19, 2023

NJ Firm Recalls Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate for Undeclared Peanuts

Updated on 1/23/23 **A previous version of this press release issued on 1/18/2023. This press release was updated to identify the single unit serving size as “single serve coffee pods”.**

A New Jersey firm is recalling its Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate for undeclared peanuts.

According to the release, "The recall was initiated after it was discovered that a replacement flavoring ingredient from a different supplier may have trace levels of peanut that was not declared on bulk label or finished product label to downstream partners. However, testing conducted by Corim indicated that the levels may be below the limit of detection. The firm’s subsequent investigation identified the root cause as a temporary breakdown in the company's supplier documentation process. The process has been corrected and the company has instituted additional safety checks and corrective actions, including discontinuing the use of this particular flavoring ingredient."

So the peanut butter flavor was provided by a non-peanut-containing ingredient.  However. due to a supplier change, this new flavor ingredient may have contained peanut.  My question is, since the label states peanuts, why not use real peanuts?  This may be due to the firm not wanting to introduce peanut allergens into their operation.  I can't imagine someone who is allergic to peanuts actually taking a chance by consuming this product because peanut allergens are not listed.




https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/corim-industries-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanuts-peanut-butter-hot-chocolate
Corim Industries Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanuts in Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 18, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  January 18, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Peanut Allergen
Company Name:  Corim Industries
Brand Name:  Cocoa de Aroma, Smart Sips and more
Product Description:  Peanut butter hot chocolate products
Company Announcement

January 18, 2023, Corim Industries, USA of Brick, New Jersey is voluntarily recalling the following peanut butter hot chocolate products because they may contain undeclared peanut. People who have allergies to peanuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the following products.

Brand Name Pack Size Lot Numbers Label
Cocoa de Aroma 24 ct k-cups assorted (12.7 oz carton containing Peanut Butter flavor 0.52 oz k-cups) All lots with Best By dates between January 11, 2023 and January 11, 2025 See images below
Smart Sips 24 ct k-cups (12.7 oz carton) All lots with Best By dates between January 11, 2023 and January 11, 2025 See images below
Jersey Charm 24 ct k-cups (12.7 oz carton) All lots with Best By dates between January 11, 2023 and January 11, 2025 See images below
Colonial Coffee 12 ct k-cups (4.44 oz carton) All lots with Best By dates between January 11, 2023 and January 11, 2025 See images below

The recalled products were distributed to a limited number of resellers nationwide between January 11, 2021 and November 30, 2022. Only products with Best By dates between January 11, 2023 and January 11, 2025 are impacted. The Best By date is marked on the bottom of the carton.

No illnesses or deaths have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that a replacement flavoring ingredient from a different supplier may have trace levels of peanut that was not declared on bulk label or finished product label to downstream partners. However, testing conducted by Corim indicated that the levels may be below the limit of detection. The firm’s subsequent investigation identified the root cause as a temporary breakdown in the company's supplier documentation process. The process has been corrected and the company has instituted additional safety checks and corrective actions, including discontinuing the use of this particular flavoring ingredient.

This recall is being made with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Consumers with a peanut allergy who have purchased the affected products are urged not to consume the product and dispose of it or return it to their place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 732-840-1670 between 9:00am and 4:00pm EST, Monday-Friday.

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