A widely distributed dairy-free milk alternative has been recalled across 27 states due to concerns about undeclared almond content.

According to a Daily Mail report, Massachusetts-based HP Hood LLC has issued a recall for several types of its 96oz Lactaid Milk containers. The recall comes after routine maintenance processes revealed trace amounts of almonds in the products, posing a potentially life-threatening risk to individuals with almond allergies or sensitivities.

The affected products were distributed to retailers and wholesalers in 27 states, including Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Scope And Details Of The Recall

The recall applies to refrigerated 96oz containers of Lactaid products with expiration dates ranging from November 2024 to December 2024.

The specific products affected include Lactaid Whole Milk, Lactaid 2% Milk, Lactaid 1% Milk, Lactaid Fat Free Milk, and Lactaid 2% Calcium Enriched Milk.

HP Hood LLC discovered the presence of almond in its products during routine maintenance processes. The company has not reported any illnesses related to the recall at this time.

The FDA recall notice stated:

People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to almonds may run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

Understanding The Risks Of Almond Allergies

Almonds are classified as tree nuts and belong to a category of foods called drupes. While the prevalence of tree nut allergies varies, a 2018 study estimated that it could affect between 0.2 percent of children and 0.5 percent of adults.

Among those with tree nut allergies, which also include cashews, pecans, and hazelnuts, an allergy to almonds is reported in nine to 15 percent of individuals, according to Allergy Insider.

Allergic reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to a protein in almonds, triggering a range of symptoms from mild to severe.

Symptoms And Potential Consequences

Symptoms of an almond allergy can include an itchy mouth and throat, hives, stomach pain, vomiting, shortness of breath, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat.

In severe cases, individuals may experience anaphylactic shock, a potentially fatal allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis can cause throat swelling, difficulty breathing, trouble swallowing, a weak pulse, and dizziness or fainting.

The exact annual number of fatal anaphylaxis cases in the United States is unknown, but one study estimates that between 0.25 percent and 0.33 percent of anaphylaxis patients die, representing between 60 and 100 deaths per year.

Lessons To Learn From This Tragedy

1. Always check food labels: Even if you've consumed a product before, manufacturers may change ingredients or processing methods. Regularly review labels, especially if you have known allergies.
2. Be aware of cross-contamination risks: As this recall shows, trace amounts of allergens can appear in unexpected places. If you have severe allergies, consider contacting manufacturers directly for more detailed information about their production processes.
3. Carry emergency medication: For those with severe allergies, always have an epinephrine auto-injector (like an EpiPen) on hand and ensure that friends and family know how to use it in case of an emergency.

It's important to note that even with precautions, allergic reactions can still occur. We should never blame individuals for experiencing an allergic reaction, as food allergies can be unpredictable and difficult to manage.

Why This Story Matters

This recall highlights the critical importance of accurate food labeling and the potential dangers of undeclared allergens in food products. It underscores the need for rigorous quality control measures in food production to protect consumers with allergies.

Additionally, this story serves as a reminder for individuals with food allergies to remain vigilant and for the general public to be aware of the serious risks that allergens can pose to certain individuals.

HP Hood LLC has recalled several types of its 96oz Lactaid Milk containers across 27 states due to undeclared almond content. The affected products have expiration dates ranging from November 2024 to December 2024. Consumers with almond allergies or sensitivities are advised to avoid these products due to the risk of potentially life-threatening allergic reactions.