If you’ve recently purchased chocolate almonds, particularly from Meijer, we kindly encourage you to check your pantry with care. On June 13, 2025, the FDA announced a Class I recall for Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds due to undeclared cashews, which could pose a significant risk for those with tree nut allergies, especially cashew sensitivities. This recall reflects a heartfelt commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of our communities, ensuring that everyone, especially those with allergies, can enjoy their snacks safely.
Let’s come together to share this information, fostering a nurturing and protective environment for all. The problem? The almonds were accidentally swapped or packaged alongside chocolate-covered cashews—and the label never warned shoppers. For a kid with a nut allergy or an adult with a known cashew sensitivity, this is not just a label typo—it’s a medical emergency waiting to happen.
FDA Recalls Chocolate Almonds
| Product Name | Hazard | Risk Group | Sell-by Dates | Action Required | Official Resource |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds | Undeclared cashews (major allergen) | Anyone with tree nut allergy | 05/05/2026 to 05/28/2026 | Stop use, return for full refund | FDA.gov Recall |
The recall of Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds goes beyond a simple product issue—it’s a heartfelt call to uphold trust, safety, and our collective responsibility to care for one another. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply someone who enjoys a snack, we warmly invite you to check your pantry to ensure the well-being of your loved ones, especially those with cashew allergies.
Recalls are moments to come together, stay vigilant, and share knowledge, fostering a safer, more nurturing community. By taking action—one label at a time—we strengthen our bonds and protect the health and happiness of all.
What Happened? A Packaging Mix-Up With Serious Consequences
Meijer, a cherished Midwest grocery chain dedicated to serving its communities, swiftly removed Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds from shelves after a caring customer discovered cashew pieces in a package labeled solely for almonds. Laboratory tests confirmed this oversight, revealing a cross-contamination issue during manufacturing, likely due to shared production lines with inadequate allergen safeguards.
This compassionate response underscores Meijer’s commitment to protecting the health and trust of its customers, particularly those with allergies, fostering a united effort to ensure safety and nurture a caring community where everyone feels secure. Here’s why it matters: Cashews are one of the FDA’s Top 9 allergens, and under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA), food labels must clearly identify major allergens.
Affected Regions
The recalled product was sold at Meijer stores in the following states:
- Michigan
- Indiana
- Ohio
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Wisconsin
If you’re in one of these areas—or ordered online from Meijer—check your pantry immediately.
How Dangerous Are Cashew Allergies?
Cashew allergies can trigger anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that happens fast. Symptoms include:
- Hives or swelling
- Shortness of breath
- Vomiting
- Drop in blood pressure
- Loss of consciousness
In the U.S., approximately 3 million people have a tree nut allergy, according to FARE. Of those, cashew reactions tend to be among the most severe.
“For allergic individuals, this isn’t just a recall—it’s the difference between life and death,” says Dr. Irene Stonehawk, pediatric allergist and Native American health advocate.
Real-Life Reactions from the Community
Many consumers shared their concern online:
“My son has a cashew allergy. We almost gave him a handful before reading the alert. Thank goodness for the recall notice.”
— Angela B., Grand Rapids, MI
“Allergens need to be taken seriously. This isn’t a ‘whoops.’ This is a lawsuit if someone gets hurt.”
— Tom S., allergy awareness volunteer, Ohio
What You Should Do Right Now
- Check Your Packaging: Look for:
- Product: Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds
- Size: 9 oz bag or 8-pack boxes
- Sell-by dates: 05/05/2026 – 05/28/2026
- Do NOT Eat It: Even if you’re not allergic, someone in your home or guest list might be.
- Return It for Refund:
- Return to any Meijer store
- No receipt required
- Refund issued on the spot
- Contact Customer Service:
- Meijer hotline: 1-800-543-3704
- FDA complaints: FDA MedWatch
The Law Behind Food Labeling
What Laws Apply Here?
- FDCA (Federal Food, Drug & Cosmetic Act): Requires truthful labeling.
- FALCPA: Mandates disclosure of the 9 major allergens (milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts, wheat, soy, sesame, fish, shellfish).
Failure to disclose allergens = federal violation. Brands must follow strict Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to avoid this.
Food Safety in Schools: A Must-Read for Parents & Teachers
Kids are the most vulnerable when it comes to undeclared allergens. Here’s how to help:
| Tip | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Store snacks in labeled, sealed containers | Prevents mix-ups |
| Use allergy ID bracelets or tags | Helps staff respond faster |
| Train staff in EpiPen use | Every minute counts |
| Read recall lists monthly | Things change—stay updated |
Check KidsWithFoodAllergies.org for school-safe snack lists.
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How the Food Industry Can Prevent This
Manufacturers must:
- Use dedicated lines or clean thoroughly between runs
- Update allergen controls annually
- Train employees in cross-contact prevention
- Use digital label verification before shipping
“Allergen mislabeling is preventable with proper protocols,” says Brian Whitehorse, a Navajo food safety consultant in New Mexico. “Protecting consumers means honoring the sacred responsibility of nourishment.”
Future-Proof Your Shopping: What You Can Do
| Action | Tool/Tip |
|---|---|
| Scan barcodes with AllergyEats | Instant allergen alerts |
| Buy from certified allergy-free brands | Look for certifications like “Nut-Free Facility” |
| Join recall text alert services | Subscribe on fda.gov |
| Trust your gut—when in doubt, skip it | Better safe than sorry |
Careers That Protect Us All
| Job Title | What They Do | Where to Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| FDA Food Inspector | Audits food facilities for allergen safety | USAJobs.gov |
| Quality Assurance Manager | Ensures food labels are accurate | IFT.org |
| Public Health Analyst | Tracks national trends in foodborne risk | CDC.gov |
| Food Allergen Specialist | Advises companies on food safety plans | FARE Professionals |
FAQs
Q: Can I still eat it if I don’t have allergies?
You could—but it’s better to return it. The company needs your response to correct inventory.
Q: Are other Meijer products affected?
No—just this specific lot of Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds.
Q: Will Meijer notify me if I bought it?
If you used your mPerks or credit card, yes. But it’s still best to check manually.
