Pizza recall as dire warning issued 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced the recall of a ready-made pizza due to an undeclared major allergen.

Richelieu Foods Inc., of Wheeling, Illinois, has voluntarily recalled one of its vegan pizza products after it was discovered to contain traces of milk, posing a significant danger to those with milk and dairy allergies. The products, labeled 365 Whole Foods Market Vegan Ultimate Veggie Thin Crust Pizza, have been distributed to four states in the U.S.

According to the FDA warning, 144 individual pizzas have “entered the supply chain.” Each of these has a lot code of 06152024 with a best by date of June 15, 2024 which is printed on the side of the packaging opposite the tear strip. The product comes in green and white packaging with black writing, and also has an image of the pizza on the box.

Affected products have been shipped to retail locations in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. No illnesses or allergic reactions have yet been reported, the FDA has confirmed. The FDA clarifies that “all other Whole Foods 365 pizzas are properly labeled, and no other products are included” in the warning issued on February 7.

Anyone who may have purchased the product is urged to either throw it away or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Any consumers with questions should contact Richelieu Foods by phoning 224-998-0357 or by email at info@richelieufoods.com.

Milk is designated a major food allergen in the U.S., with the other foods being eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans. According to Mayo Clinic, cow’s milk is the most likely source of an allergic reaction in affected people, but adverse signs can occur from consuming other animal-based milks such as goat and sheep milks.

Allergic reactions usually occur soon after consumption. After drinking or eating a product containing milk, symptoms can include hives, wheezing, itching around the lips and mouth, coughing, shortness of breath, and vomiting.

In serious cases, it can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that narrows an airway and makes it difficult for someone to breathe. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, facial flushing, itching and a dramatic drop in blood pressure. It is an emergency condition that requires immediate hospital treatment.

Anyone who experiences an allergic reaction is urged to see a medical professional as soon as possible.

Newsweek has contacted Richelieu Foods for comment via email outside of normal working hours.