Frozen Pizza Recall Issued in Seven States
Key Takeaways
• Frozen pizza recall in 7 states due to missing soy allergen label. • Look for square boxes with red/white branding, best by dates April 2024-2025, and "EST.46308" on the package. • Soy allergy can cause serious reactions - discard pizza if unsure, seek medical attention if symptoms occur. • Check food labels and recalls for allergen information to stay safe.
Consumers in seven northeastern states are urged to check their freezers after a Vermont-based pizza producer issued a recall for mislabeled products.
The U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall of over 8,200 pounds of frozen meat pizzas made by 802 VT Frozen due to an undeclared soy, a major food allergen.
The recall stems from a routine inspection by the FSIS, which revealed that the "MEAT!!! CRISPY WOOD-FIRED CRUST HAND MADE PIZZA" products contained soy, despite no mention of the allergen on the packaging.
This mistake poses a potential health risk for individuals with soy allergies, who may experience a range of unpleasant and potentially life-threatening reactions upon consumption.
The affected pizzas were distributed to grocery stores in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
Consumers can identify the recalled products by looking for these details:
Square pizza boxes with red and white branding
"Best if used by" date between April 25, 2024, and April 25, 2025, printed on the back
Establishment number "EST.46308" inside the USDA mark of inspection
The FSIS emphasizes that no illnesses or allergic reactions have been linked to the recalled pizzas yet. However, they strongly advise consumers to discard any pizzas matching the description or return them to the point of purchase.
Risk and Symptoms of Soy Allergy
Soy is one of the nine major food allergens designated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Others on this list include milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and sesame.
By law, these allergens must be clearly labeled on all food packaging to ensure consumers are aware.
For people with soy allergies, consuming these products can trigger allergic reactions, ranging in severity.
Common symptoms of soy allergy include:
Hives or rashes
Swelling of the face, tongue, or lips
Vomiting and/or diarrhea
Abdominal cramping
Coughing or wheezing
In more serious cases, an allergic reaction can progress to anaphylaxis.
This is a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause throat swelling, a drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and even loss of consciousness.
Recommendations for Consumers
Consumers who have purchased the recalled pizzas but do not have a soy allergy can choose to discard the product or return it to the store for a full refund.
However, anyone with a soy allergy who has already eaten the pizza and is experiencing concerning symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
For those who believe they or someone they know might be experiencing a severe allergic reaction, call emergency services.