Orgain’s Chocolate Protein Powder Recalled Nationwide Due to Undeclared Peanut Allergen
The voluntary recall of Orgain’s chocolate-flavored "30g Plant Protein Complete Protein Powder" has raised alarm among consumers and health experts alike. Classified as a Class I risk by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)—the agency’s highest level of recall—this issue highlights the grave consequences of undeclared allergens in food products.
Orgain, based in Irvine, California, issued the recall on December 17, 2024, after discovering that a batch of its popular plant-based protein powder contained peanut residue, an undeclared allergen. Approximately 6,276 two-pound tubs of the product were distributed nationwide through major retailers like Costco, Walmart, and Amazon, as well as online platforms.
Facts Surrounding the Protein Powder Recall
The recall applies specifically to tubs labeled “30g Plant Protein Complete Protein Powder” and “30g Protein Organic Plant-Based Powder – Chocolate.” These products are packaged in blue-labeled plastic tubs with the following identifiers:
- Expiration Date: June 20, 2026
- UPC Code: 8 51770 00760 3
- Product Lot Code: 4172-02-P
The issue was brought to Orgain’s attention after a consumer reported an allergic reaction. In response, the company initiated the recall “out of an abundance of caution” to prevent further incidents. Thus far, no additional reports of allergic reactions have been documented.
The FDA’s Class I designation indicates a high risk of severe health consequences or death from exposure to the product. Peanut allergies, which affect millions in the U.S., are among the most dangerous food allergies, with the potential to trigger life-threatening reactions like anaphylaxis.
The Dangers of Undeclared Peanut Allergens
Undeclared allergens in food products can lead to catastrophic consequences for those with allergies. Peanut allergies are particularly perilous, as they can trigger immediate and severe symptoms, including swelling, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis. For individuals with a peanut allergy, even trace amounts of peanut residue in food can cause an allergic reaction.
Consumers who unknowingly consumed the recalled protein powder faced significant health risks. While Orgain’s recall followed the report of a single allergic reaction, this case underscores the broader issue of quality control in food manufacturing. The presence of an undeclared allergen violates federal labeling laws designed to protect consumers.
The risks are compounded when products with undeclared allergens are sold through major retailers and online platforms, making widespread exposure likely. For consumers with life-threatening allergies, such recalls highlight the importance of vigilance when selecting packaged foods.
How Victims Can Seek Legal Recourse
Consumers who suffered harm due to the recalled Orgain protein powder may have grounds to file a product liability lawsuit. These lawsuits hold manufacturers accountable for negligence, defective products, or failure to warn consumers about potential risks. In this case, Orgain’s failure to disclose the presence of peanuts constitutes a serious breach of its duty to ensure the safety of its products.
Victims who experienced allergic reactions could pursue legal action to recover damages for their injuries. A successful product liability claim typically requires evidence that the product was defective or mislabeled and that the defect directly caused harm.
The Process of Filing a Product Liability Lawsuit
Filing a product liability lawsuit involves several steps. First, victims must document the harm they suffered, which may include medical records, photographs of the product, and proof of purchase. An attorney will then draft a formal complaint, outlining how the defective product caused injury and why the manufacturer is responsible.
The legal process often includes an investigative phase, during which both parties exchange evidence. This can involve testing the product for allergen contamination and reviewing the manufacturer’s quality control protocols. If the case does not settle, it may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine whether the manufacturer is liable and, if so, award damages.
Why Legal Representation is Essential
Product liability cases against major manufacturers require a deep understanding of the law and the ability to navigate complex legal proceedings. Victims pursuing claims against a company like Orgain will face a well-funded legal team prepared to minimize liability.
An attorney can play a crucial role in gathering evidence, consulting with medical and industry experts, and negotiating with the manufacturer or their insurer. Legal representation ensures that victims receive fair compensation and that corporations are held accountable for negligence.
Compensation Available in a Product Liability Lawsuit
Victims of the Orgain protein powder recall may be entitled to recover a range of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for treatments related to allergic reactions, including emergency room visits and follow-up care.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for missed work due to recovery or hospitalization.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional distress caused by the allergic reaction.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, courts may award punitive damages to deter similar behavior in the future.
The recall of Orgain’s chocolate-flavored protein powder serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by undeclared allergens. For those affected, legal action offers a path to recovery and accountability. If you or a loved one were harmed by this recalled product, it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your rights.
The national product injury law firm Parker Waichman LLP is dedicated to fighting for victims of defective or dangerous products. If you suffered harm after consuming Orgain’s recalled protein powder, you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact Parker Waichman LLP For A Free Case Review
Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free consultation. Let our team of skilled attorneys help you hold negligent manufacturers accountable and secure the justice you deserve. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our national product injury law firm is ready to assist you.
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