Dangerous Allergen Recall: Colussi Cantuccini Chocolate Chip Cookies Pulled from Shelves
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a nationwide recall of “Colussi Cantuccini Chocolate Drops” chocolate chip cookies due to the presence of an undeclared allergen—almonds. Distributed by D. Coluccio & Sons, this product was manufactured in Italy and has been flagged for posing a potentially life-threatening risk to consumers with almond allergies. Although no illnesses have been reported, the recall highlights significant concerns about labeling and production practices that failed to disclose the allergen.
This issue raises questions about food safety, corporate responsibility, and the legal rights of consumers harmed by mislabeled or dangerous products. Victims of allergic reactions caused by undeclared allergens in food products may have the right to pursue a lawsuit to recover damages. At Parker Waichman LLP, we are dedicated to holding negligent companies accountable. If you or a loved one has been harmed by a mislabeled food product, call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free consultation.
The FDA Recall and Its Implications
The FDA’s recall of Colussi Cantuccini Chocolate Drops highlights a critical failure in the manufacturing and packaging processes of D. Coluccio & Sons’ supply chain. The issue stems from a breakdown in production that allowed almond-containing cookies to be distributed in packaging that failed to disclose the allergen. For individuals with almond allergies, consuming these cookies could trigger severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis—a potentially fatal condition that requires immediate medical attention.
The affected products are sold in 10.58-ounce blue bags with UPC 8002590006020. Consumers can identify the impacted packages by lot numbers 3540152 (BBD 15-01-2025) and L354150 (BBD 29-05-2025), printed on the back of the packaging. Customers are urged to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
While the recall aims to prevent further harm, the incident underscores the importance of accurate labeling in the food industry and the severe consequences of lapses in quality control. Such negligence exposes consumers to unnecessary risks, particularly those who rely on clear labeling to manage potentially life-threatening allergies.
How Consumers Are Harmed
Food allergies affect millions of people in the United States, and mislabeled products can have catastrophic consequences. When an allergen like almonds is not disclosed on a food label, unsuspecting consumers with allergies may unknowingly consume the product. This can lead to immediate and severe health effects, including difficulty breathing, swelling, hives, and, in extreme cases, anaphylactic shock.
Beyond the physical harm, such incidents also carry emotional and financial burdens. Victims may face costly emergency medical care, prolonged recovery, and the psychological impact of experiencing a life-threatening event. Families of those affected also bear the weight of medical expenses and the stress of dealing with negligent product manufacturers.
Legal Rights and the Lawsuit Process
Consumers harmed by mislabeled food products have the right to seek justice through a product liability lawsuit. Such claims often hinge on demonstrating that the manufacturer’s negligence caused harm. In this case, the failure to disclose almonds in the cookies constitutes a breach of the manufacturer’s duty to provide safe, accurately labeled products.
The legal process typically begins with an investigation into the incident. This involves gathering evidence such as medical records, the recalled product’s packaging, and documentation of the financial losses incurred by the victim. An attorney will then file a formal complaint against the negligent company, detailing how the manufacturer’s failure caused harm.
Once the complaint is filed, the discovery phase begins. Both parties exchange evidence, and depositions may be taken. In many cases, manufacturers may opt to settle the claim to avoid the expense and publicity of a trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to court, where a judge or jury will determine liability and damages.
Why You Need an Attorney
Pursuing a product liability claim requires navigating complex legal and procedural hurdles. An attorney plays a crucial role in building a compelling case, negotiating with insurance companies, and advocating for the victim’s rights in court. Without legal representation, victims may struggle to secure fair compensation for their losses, especially when dealing with large corporations that have substantial legal resources.
At Parker Waichman LLP, our team has extensive experience handling product liability cases, including those involving mislabeled food products. We are committed to holding negligent manufacturers accountable and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Damages Victims May Recover
Victims harmed by mislabeled products may be entitled to recover a range of damages, including:
- Medical expenses for emergency care, ongoing treatment, and medication
- Lost wages due to time missed from work during recovery
- Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional distress caused by the incident
- Punitive damages, in cases where the manufacturer’s negligence was particularly egregious
Contact Parker Waichman LLP for a Free Case Review
If you or a loved one has been harmed by mislabeled food products like Colussi Cantuccini Chocolate Drops, Parker Waichman LLP can help. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and holding negligent companies accountable.
Contact us by calling 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free consultation. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our national product injury law firm is ready to assist you.