FDA warns of undeclared peanut residue in popular plant-based supplement
Breaking recall alert
A serious safety concern has surfaced for consumers of Orgain‘s plant-based protein products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued a voluntary recall of a specific batch of Orgain’s chocolate protein powder due to potential peanut contamination. This warning has raised significant health concerns, particularly for individuals with peanut allergies. Consumers are urged to take immediate action to protect their health.
Critical product information
The specific product being recalled is the 30g Protein Organic Plant-Based Powder – Chocolate with a 2.01lb weight. The affected batch carries the following details:
- Expiration Date: June 20, 2026
- Lot Code: 4172-02-P
These products are part of a limited batch, but given the widespread popularity of Orgain products, the recall affects a large consumer base. This recall is particularly concerning because the product, which is marketed as plant-based and peanut-free, contains undeclared peanuts, posing a severe allergy risk to consumers who are unaware of this contamination.
Nationwide distribution impact
The recalled batch of chocolate protein powder was distributed to various retailers and online platforms across the country, impacting a wide range of consumers. The affected product has been found in stores like:
- Whole Foods
- Costco
- Kroger
- Walmart
Additionally, the product was sold through online channels and specialty health food stores, meaning that a significant number of consumers nationwide may have purchased the affected lot. The widespread distribution of this batch makes it critical for consumers to check whether they have purchased the product in question.
Immediate safety steps
If you believe you have purchased the affected product, immediate action is required to ensure your safety. The FDA urges consumers to follow these steps:
- Stop using the affected product immediately. Even if the product has already been consumed, do not continue using it.
- Check the lot code on your product packaging to confirm if it matches the recalled batch (Lot Code: 4172-02-P). The lot code can typically be found on the bottom of the container.
- Contact Orgain for further guidance on how to proceed with a refund or replacement. They are offering assistance to those who purchased the affected products.
- Dispose of affected products safely to avoid accidental consumption. Be sure to place the product in a sealed container before disposal to prevent anyone from mistakenly using it.
Understanding allergy risks
For those with peanut allergies, even a small amount of exposure can lead to serious health consequences. Allergic reactions can manifest in a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, making it crucial for individuals to be vigilant and informed.
Mild reactions typically include:
- Localized hives
- Skin itching
- Nasal congestion
- Minor rashes
- Eye irritation
For those experiencing any of these symptoms after consuming the recalled product, it’s important to take immediate action. However, more serious symptoms may develop, including anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires emergency intervention.
Severe reactions (Anaphylaxis) may include:
- Breathing difficulties
- Chest tightness
- Severe swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Dizziness
- Rapid pulse
- Loss of consciousness
These symptoms require immediate medical attention. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, it’s critical to seek help right away.
Emergency response protocol
In the event of a severe allergic reaction, follow these steps to ensure the individual receives the necessary medical care:
- Call emergency services immediately if you or someone else is experiencing severe symptoms. Time is critical in cases of anaphylaxis.
- Use prescribed epinephrine if available. This can be lifesaving in the event of an allergic emergency.
- Document all symptoms to aid medical professionals in determining the best course of treatment.
- Seek immediate medical attention regardless of whether epinephrine is administered, as further medical evaluation is necessary.
- Keep the affected product in a secure location so that it can be used in an investigation. This helps health officials trace the source of contamination and prevent further issues.
Consumer protection steps
Consumers can take proactive measures to reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future. These steps can be implemented to protect yourself and others from allergic reactions and product safety concerns:
- Regular product inspection: Before purchasing any product, especially for individuals with allergies, always read ingredient labels carefully and verify that the product is safe to consume.
- Maintaining awareness of recalls: Stay updated on the latest recall announcements by following reliable sources like the FDA website or subscribing to recall notification services. This can help you react quickly if a product you’ve purchased is recalled.
- Understanding allergy symptoms: Familiarize yourself with common allergy symptoms so that you can quickly identify a potential reaction and act accordingly.
- Having emergency medication ready: For those with severe allergies, keeping epinephrine or other prescribed medications on hand is critical. Be sure to carry these medications wherever you go, especially when consuming new or unfamiliar products.
- Keeping medical contact information accessible: In the event of a reaction, having easy access to medical contact information can save valuable time in seeking help.
Conclusion
The Orgain chocolate protein powder recall serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with food products, even those marketed as “safe” for individuals with dietary restrictions. Consumers need to stay informed and vigilant, especially when dealing with allergens. By taking swift action to check for affected products and following proper safety measures, you can ensure your health remains a priority. Be sure to dispose of the recalled product safely and contact Orgain for further guidance on the refund process.
