FDA Says Consumers with Dairy Allergies Face Serious Health Risks from Mislabeling
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified the recent recall of Fresh Direct Dark Chocolate Pretzels as a Class I danger, the highest level of recall issued by the agency. The recall involves 99 cases of 7-ounce bags of Woodstock Farms branded Fresh Direct Dark Chocolate Pretzels, manufactured by United Natural Trading. These products were sold online through third-party vendors and in retail stores across Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York.
The recall was initiated voluntarily on January 27, 2025, after an internal review of United Natural Trading's label management system revealed that milk was not listed on the product’s packaging. This failure to disclose the presence of milk poses a serious health risk to consumers with dairy allergies, potentially leading to severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis—a life-threatening condition that can cause breathing difficulties, shock, and even death.
Although no illnesses had been reported at the time of the recall, the FDA's classification signals that the product presents a severe health hazard. The affected bags carry lot number 24353, UPC number 811102026276, and an expiration date of June 30, 2025. Consumers who have purchased these pretzels are advised to return them to the store for a full refund or dispose of them immediately.
The FDA is continuing to monitor the situation to determine if any adverse health effects have been reported. United Natural Trading has provided a contact number (732-650-9905) for consumers with concerns about the recall.
The Health Risks of Undeclared Milk Allergens
Food allergies, particularly those related to dairy, can be deadly. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, about 2 to 3 percent of children under the age of 3 suffer from a milk allergy. While 80 percent outgrow it by age 16, some individuals remain allergic for life. Even trace amounts of milk proteins in a product can trigger severe allergic reactions in those who are sensitive.
An allergic reaction to milk can cause a range of symptoms, including hives, vomiting, difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, and a dangerous drop in blood pressure. In severe cases, exposure to milk can lead to anaphylaxis, which requires immediate emergency medical intervention. Without prompt treatment, anaphylaxis can result in death.
This recall underscores the critical importance of accurate food labeling. Consumers rely on manufacturers to clearly list allergens to avoid dangerous health risks. A failure to properly disclose ingredients violates FDA labeling requirements and can have serious legal consequences for the manufacturer.
Legal Options for Consumers Harmed by the Recalled Product
Victims who suffer allergic reactions due to mislabeling may have grounds for a product liability lawsuit. Under federal and state consumer protection laws, food manufacturers are required to properly label products and disclose common allergens, such as milk, peanuts, soy, and wheat.
If a consumer with a dairy allergy unknowingly consumes Fresh Direct Dark Chocolate Pretzels and experiences an allergic reaction, they may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can be held legally responsible for injuries caused by negligent mislabeling.
How a Product Liability Lawsuit Works
Filing a lawsuit against a food manufacturer for failure to disclose allergens involves several steps. First, victims must provide medical records that confirm an allergic reaction was caused by the mislabeled product. Additionally, proof of purchase or receipts showing that the consumer bought the affected product is necessary to establish liability.
After gathering evidence, an attorney will file a lawsuit on behalf of the injured party. The manufacturer may attempt to settle the case out of court, but if a fair settlement is not offered, the lawsuit proceeds to trial. At trial, medical experts and product safety specialists can testify about the dangers of mislabeling and how the manufacturer failed to follow FDA regulations.
Why Legal Representation is Essential
Taking on a large food manufacturer can be challenging without an experienced product liability attorney. Food safety cases require thorough investigations, expert testimony, and legal strategies to prove that the manufacturer’s negligence directly caused harm.
An attorney will help victims:
- Gather medical records and documentation of the allergic reaction
- Prove that the manufacturer failed to properly label the product
- Calculate damages, including medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost income
- Negotiate with the manufacturer’s legal team for a fair settlement
- Take the case to trial if necessary to secure maximum compensation
Without strong legal representation, victims may struggle to obtain the compensation they deserve. Food manufacturers and retailers often have teams of attorneys prepared to defend against liability claims, making it crucial for injured consumers to have an advocate on their side.
Damages Available in a Food Mislabeling Lawsuit
Victims of food-related allergic reactions may be entitled to several types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses for emergency treatment, hospitalization, and follow-up care
- Lost wages if the allergic reaction caused time away from work
- Pain and suffering for physical discomfort and emotional distress
- Punitive damages if the manufacturer’s conduct was reckless or grossly negligent
Consumers harmed by the Woodstock Farms Fresh Direct Dark Chocolate Pretzels recall should consider legal action to recover compensation for their suffering. Holding manufacturers accountable ensures that food safety standards are enforced and that companies prioritize consumer health over profits.
If you or a loved one suffered an allergic reaction due to undeclared milk in Fresh Direct Dark Chocolate Pretzels, you may be eligible for compensation. The national product injury law firm Parker Waichman LLP is dedicated to fighting for victims harmed by mislabeled food products.
Contact Parker Waichman LLP For a Free Case Review
Contact us by calling 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) for a free consultation and learn how you can seek justice for your injuries. Regardless of where your injury occurred, our national product injury law firm is ready to assist you.
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