Texas Pete Hot Sauces Recalled Across 10 States Due to Sulfite Concerns

The T.W. Garner Food Company, a manufacturer based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has announced a recall of two types of its Texas Pete hot sauces. This decision affects consumers in ten states due to labeling and bottling discrepancies that pose serious health risks.

Recall Details and Affected Products

On Thursday, T.W. Garner issued a recall for certain bottles of Texas Pete Habanero Buffalo Sauce and Texas Pete Sweet CHAbanero Sauce. The recall stems from inspections that revealed some bottles of the Habanero Buffalo Sauce might contain sriracha pepper sauce instead. This alternative sauce contains undisclosed sulfites, which are not listed on the Habanero Buffalo label.

Health Risks Associated with Sulfites

The presence of sulfites presents significant health concerns, especially for individuals with allergies or severe sensitivities. According to the company’s notice, consuming products containing sulfites may lead to serious or even life-threatening allergic reactions. It is crucial for consumers who are sensitive to sulfites to avoid these products.

FDA Involvement and Regulatory Compliance

The recall notice is posted on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) website in the product recalls section. The FDA dictates that any sulfite content in food products must be clearly declared on labels when present as an ingredient or a processing aid. Failure to comply with these regulations poses risks to public health and safety.

Discovering the Issue

During internal quality testing, T.W. Garner identified that the Habanero Buffalo Sauce may indeed contain sriracha sauce, which utilizes sodium bisulfite as a preservative. This realization led to the determination that the Habanero Buffalo Sauce potentially has undeclared sulfites.

Additional Recalls for Sweet CHAbanero Sauce

Alongside the Habanero Buffalo Sauce, T.W. Garner is also recalling specific lots and sizes of the Texas Pete Sweet CHAbanero Sauce. The company revealed that these bottles do not contain the labeled ingredients of aged peppers, including red habanero peppers, salt, and vinegar. This further complicates the labeling integrity of their products.

Distribution Timeline and Product Information

The impacted products were distributed from February 5 to March 26, 2025. Consumers can identify affected bottles by checking the best-by date; it is located on the top side of the 2 fluid ounce bottles, on the back label of the 20-ounce containers, and on the cap of the 12 fluid ounce and 0.5-gallon jugs.

States Affected by the Recall

The recalled products have been shipped to various distribution centers and retail locations in multiple states, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New Jersey, Ohio, Virginia, and Vermont. This widespread distribution amplifies the urgency for consumers in these areas to check their pantry for any affected products.

Consumer Guidance and Next Steps

Consumers who have purchased any of the affected hot sauces should take immediate action. The T.W. Garner Food Company urges customers to dispose of these products or return them to the store for a full refund. This step is vital to ensure the safety of individuals who may be impacted by sulfite exposure.

Contact Information for Concerns

For any further questions or concerns regarding the recall, consumers can directly contact the T.W. Garner Food Company. The company remains committed to transparency and consumer safety during this critical recall announcement.

Raising Awareness About Food Safety

In light of this incident, it is essential for consumers to stay informed about food safety recalls. Regularly checking updates from the FDA and other regulatory agencies can help prevent adverse health effects. Awareness is a key factor in ensuring safe consumption of food products.

This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of diligent food labeling and the potential risks associated with undisclosed ingredients. Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and prioritize their health when purchasing food items.