Mac and Cheese Bites Recalled Due to Undeclared Egg and Meat Allergens
A nationwide recall has been issued for 365 Whole Foods Market Small Bites Macaroni & Cheese after it was discovered that the product may contain undeclared eggs and meat ingredients. The recall, initiated by the manufacturer, was confirmed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and applies to frozen macaroni and cheese bites sold exclusively at Whole Foods Market locations across the United States.
The issue came to light when a consumer purchased the product, bit into one of the bites, and discovered that it contained meat instead of macaroni and cheese. This prompted an investigation that led to the recall announcement. While no illnesses have been reported yet, the undeclared ingredients pose a serious health risk to individuals with egg or meat allergies, making this a potentially life-threatening situation for those affected.
Consumers who have purchased these mac and cheese bites between February 6, 2025, and March 11, 2025, should check the packaging for UPC Code: 99482499709 and a best-by date of 11/29/25. Those in possession of the recalled product are advised to return it to Whole Foods for a full refund.
How Undeclared Allergens Put Consumers at Risk
For individuals with food allergies, consuming an undeclared allergen can have severe and immediate consequences. Allergic reactions to eggs can range from mild symptoms such as hives or stomach discomfort to severe anaphylactic reactions, which can cause throat swelling, difficulty breathing, and even death if not treated promptly. Meat allergies, while less common, can also trigger serious immune responses, leading to hospitalization in some cases.
The most alarming aspect of this recall is that consumers trusted they were purchasing a vegetarian-friendly macaroni and cheese product, only to unknowingly consume animal-based ingredients. For individuals who follow strict dietary restrictions due to allergies, religious beliefs, or lifestyle choices, this mislabeling represents not only a health risk but also a violation of consumer trust.
Food recalls due to mislabeling and undeclared allergens have become increasingly common. Earlier this year, another misbranding incident led to a public health alert for a chicken empanada product sold at Walmart, which contained undeclared allergens. These cases highlight the urgent need for stricter quality control and oversight in food manufacturing to prevent dangerous and potentially deadly mistakes.
Legal Options for Consumers Harmed by Misbranded Food Products
Consumers who experience severe allergic reactions or health complications due to misbranded food products may have legal grounds to seek compensation for their injuries. Food manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that product labels accurately reflect the ingredients contained in their products. When a company fails to disclose allergens, they may be liable for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering experienced by affected individuals.
Victims of severe allergic reactions or food-related injuries should seek immediate medical attention and document their symptoms. Keeping receipts, product packaging, and medical records can help support a potential legal claim. An attorney can assist in filing a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer to hold them accountable for failing to prevent a dangerous labeling error.
Food recalls should not be taken lightly, especially when they involve undeclared allergens. Companies must follow strict food safety regulations, and when they fail to do so, consumers have the right to demand accountability.
Why Legal Representation Matters in Food Recall Cases
Filing a product liability lawsuit against a food manufacturer is complex, requiring evidence of negligence and proof of damages. Large corporations and their insurers often attempt to minimize liability by arguing that recall notices were issued promptly or that individual consumers were responsible for checking ingredient labels. However, when a company fails to disclose allergens, it directly violates food safety regulations, making them legally responsible for any harm caused.
A food injury attorney can help victims build a strong case by:
- Investigating the recall to determine how and why the mislabeling occurred
- Gathering medical evidence to show the severity of the allergic reaction
- Calculating damages to ensure victims receive full compensation
- Holding food manufacturers accountable for putting consumers at risk
In some cases, class action lawsuits may be filed if multiple consumers suffer injuries due to the same recall. These lawsuits can help affected individuals recover compensation while also pressuring companies to improve food safety measures.
Compensation Available in Food Recall Lawsuits
Consumers who suffer serious health consequences due to undeclared allergens in food products may be eligible for compensation, including:
- Medical expenses for emergency treatment, hospitalization, and long-term care
- Lost wages if the allergic reaction leads to missed work or reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
- Punitive damages in cases where the manufacturer acted recklessly or failed to follow food safety protocols
When food companies cut corners or fail to properly label their products, the consequences can be life-threatening. Holding these companies legally accountable ensures that similar mistakes do not happen in the future.
What Consumers Should Do If Affected by the Recall
Consumers who purchased the 365 Whole Foods Market Small Bites Macaroni & Cheese should immediately stop consuming the product and return it to Whole Foods for a full refund. Those who have already experienced an allergic reaction should seek medical care and consider consulting a product liability attorney if they have suffered significant harm.
CONTACT PARKER WAICHMAN LLP FOR A FREE CASE REVIEW
Food safety regulations exist to protect consumers, and when companies fail to comply, they must be held responsible. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious allergic reaction or other health complications after consuming a recalled food product, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries.
Contact us by calling 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options or visit our website www.yourlawyer.com to learn more about your rights in food recall cases. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide product injury law firm is ready to assist you.
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