Van Leeuwen Issues Recall for Undeclared Peanut Allergen
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream has initiated a voluntary recall of certain pints of its Vegan Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll ice cream due to the presence of undeclared peanuts, which pose a significant risk to those with peanut allergies. This allergen can potentially cause severe and life-threatening reactions in individuals who are allergic to peanuts.
The New York-based ice cream manufacturer specified that the recall affects Vegan Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll pints from Lot 24V094. These pints were exclusively sold at Van Leeuwen's 81 Bergen Street location in Brooklyn. To identify the affected pints, consumers should check the bottom of the 14oz container for the lot number 24V094 along with a Best By date of April 3, 2026.
Four Pints Have Been Recovered
Upon discovering that the pints contained undeclared peanuts, Van Leeuwen promptly initiated the recall. The company reported that eight pints were found to contain the allergen, despite being packaged without any indication of peanuts. So far, four of these contaminated pints have been recovered, leaving four pints still potentially in the possession of consumers.
An investigation conducted by Van Leeuwen revealed that the contamination occurred due to a mock case sample inadvertently entering the distribution channel. Such mock samples are typically used for internal quality control and should not have been part of the production batch that reached consumers.
The recall has significant health implications, as one adverse reaction has already been reported in connection with the tainted ice cream. Given the severity of peanut allergies, which can induce symptoms ranging from mild hives to anaphylaxis, it is crucial for those with allergies to avoid consuming the affected product.
How to Contact the Company
Van Leeuwen is urging any consumers who have purchased the recalled ice cream to reach out for further instructions on how to proceed. They can contact the company through their dedicated email address: Hello@VanLeeuwenIceCream.com. The company aims to ensure that all affected customers are properly informed and assisted in this matter.
It’s important to note that the recall is strictly limited to the specific lot number 24V094 of Vegan Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll ice cream and does not extend to any other lot numbers or varieties of Van Leeuwen's products.
FDA's Role in Monitoring Food Safety
The incident underscores the importance of accurate labeling and quality control in the food industry, particularly when dealing with allergens. Undeclared allergens in food products can endanger lives and thus require immediate and decisive action when detected. Van Leeuwen's recall is a critical measure to protect its consumers and rectify the mistake.
Parents and caregivers of children with peanut allergies should be particularly vigilant, as children may not always be aware of or communicate their allergies effectively. Checking labels and lot numbers carefully can help prevent potential allergic reactions.
Food safety authorities, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), monitor such recalls closely to ensure public safety. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream’s quick response in addressing the contamination issue reflects its commitment to consumer safety.