FDA Issues Class II Recall for MadeGood Granola Bars Due to Metal Contamination
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified the recall of over 2.4 million cases of MadeGood granola bars as a Class II risk, indicating that consuming the affected products could lead to temporary or medically reversible health consequences. The recall was initiated by Riverside Natural Foods Inc., the Chicago-based parent company of MadeGood, after reports that some granola bars may contain metal pieces due to contamination from a small, flat brush bristle used during the manufacturing process.
The recall was first announced on December 9, 2024, following seven consumer complaints. Although no injuries have been reported so far, the FDA's decision to classify the recall as a Class II event underscores the potential health risks posed by the contaminated granola bars.
What Led to the MadeGood Granola Bar Recall?
The recall involves several MadeGood granola bar flavors, including:
- Chocolate Chip
- Mixed Berry
- Strawberry
- Cookies & Crème
- Chocolate Banana
- Chocolate Drizzled Birthday Cake
- Chocolate Drizzled Cookie Crumble
- Chocolate Drizzled Vanilla
These products were manufactured between January and November 2024 and distributed across the United States, Canada, and other international markets. The contamination was traced back to a manufacturing defect, which MadeGood claims has been corrected since the recall. The company worked with retailers to remove the affected products from store shelves and is offering full refunds to customers who return their recalled granola bars.
While MadeGood stated that the recall was conducted “out of an abundance of caution,” the FDA's decision to issue a Class II classification highlights that the potential for harm still exists. A Class II recall is more serious than a Class III recall, which applies to products unlikely to cause harm. However, it is less severe than a Class I recall, which involves products with a high likelihood of causing serious injury or death.
Consumers who have purchased MadeGood granola bars should check their packaging against the recall list. If they have an affected product, they can return it for a refund at the store where it was purchased. Those with concerns about the recall can contact the MadeGood Consumer Hotline at 855-215-5695 or visit the company's website for further information.
How Consumers Can Be Harmed by Metal Contamination in Food
The risk of metal contamination in food is a serious concern because even small fragments can pose significant health risks. While MadeGood has stated that no injuries have been reported so far, metal pieces in food products can lead to various health complications depending on their size, shape, and how they are consumed.
Small metal fragments can cause oral injuries, including cuts and damage to the teeth or gums. If swallowed, metal pieces can lead to gastrointestinal injuries, including damage to the throat, stomach, or intestines. In severe cases, metal contamination can cause intestinal blockages or perforations, which may require emergency medical treatment or even surgery. If the metal has sharp edges, it can puncture soft tissue in the digestive tract, increasing the risk of infection or internal bleeding.
For individuals with pre-existing digestive conditions or small children, the risks are even greater. A piece of metal lodged in the digestive tract can lead to severe complications, and young children may not be able to articulate their symptoms effectively, delaying necessary medical treatment.
When a company allows food products to become contaminated due to manufacturing defects, consumers may suffer physical harm and financial losses from medical treatment, lost wages, and emotional distress. Companies have a legal responsibility to ensure their products are safe before they reach the public. If negligence leads to contamination, affected individuals may be able to file a lawsuit to seek compensation for their injuries.
Legal Options for Victims of the MadeGood Granola Bar Contamination
Victims who have suffered injuries or illnesses from consuming metal-contaminated granola bars may be eligible to file a product liability lawsuit against Riverside Natural Foods Inc. and MadeGood. Product liability law holds manufacturers accountable when defective products cause harm to consumers. In this case, if someone was injured due to ingesting metal fragments in the recalled granola bars, they may have a valid legal claim.
Filing a lawsuit involves several key steps. First, victims need to establish proof of injury by documenting their medical diagnosis and linking it to the consumption of the recalled product. Medical records, doctor’s reports, and evidence of purchasing the affected granola bars can help build a strong case.
The lawsuit process typically begins with a formal complaint filed in court, outlining how the defective product caused harm. The next phase, called discovery, involves gathering evidence, including company records, manufacturing reports, and expert testimony on food safety standards. The manufacturer may attempt to settle the case out of court, but if a fair settlement is not offered, the case may proceed to trial, where a jury or judge determines the outcome.
Why Victims Need an Attorney to Handle a Product Liability Case
Product liability cases require legal experience and resources to prove that a manufacturer was negligent in producing or inspecting their products. A skilled attorney can investigate the manufacturing process, analyze FDA safety regulations, and identify whether Riverside Natural Foods failed to take appropriate precautions to prevent contamination.
Corporations often have teams of lawyers working to minimize their financial liability, making it difficult for victims to fight for fair compensation alone. A lawyer can handle settlement negotiations, ensuring victims receive adequate compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. If the case goes to trial, an attorney will present expert witnesses and evidence to support the claim.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Product Liability Lawsuit?
Consumers injured by the contaminated MadeGood granola bars may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Covering hospital visits, surgeries, and ongoing treatment for injuries caused by metal ingestion.
- Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to missed work caused by illness or recovery time.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, courts may award additional damages to punish the company and prevent similar misconduct in the future.
If you or a loved one suffered harm from consuming a contaminated MadeGood granola bar, you may be entitled to financial compensation. The national product injury law firm Parker Waichman LLP is committed to holding negligent manufacturers accountable.
Contact Parker Waichman LLP For a Free Case Review
Contact us by calling 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free consultation and find out how our legal team can help you pursue justice and the compensation you deserve. Regardless of where your injury occurred, our national product injury law firm is ready to assist you.
.svg){kind=small}
.avif)
.avif)