Urgent Food Recall: Chicken Salad Sandwiches and Brioche Bread Due to Allergen Concerns

Urgent Food Recall: Chicken Salad Sandwiches and Brioche Bread Due to Allergen Concerns

A significant recall has been issued for a chicken salad sandwich sold primarily in vending machines across Georgia and South Carolina. The recall is attributed to undeclared milk, a serious allergen that can pose risks to individuals with allergies. Additionally, a Texas-based bakery has announced a separate recall of brioche bread products due to undeclared allergens including milk and other ingredients.

Details of the Chicken Salad Sandwich Recall

Cromer Food Services, headquartered in Anderson, South Carolina, confirmed the chicken salad sandwich recall following a routine inspection by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The affected product is identified as the Chicken Salad on White sandwich, with UPC codes 31166 and 13172. Notably, these sandwiches were sold primarily in micro-markets and vending machines between December 26, 2024, and March 24, 2025.

The FDA indicated that the label for the chicken salad sandwich failed to include critical ingredients related to the bread, raising considerable health concerns. Consumers with milk allergies are particularly cautioned, as ingestion could lead to adverse reactions.

Specifics on Affected Products

The recall includes sandwiches with different use-by dates: the one labeled with UPC code 31166 had a use-by date of January 3, 2025, while the sandwich with UPC code 13172 was dated for April 1, 2025. Importantly, no illnesses resulting from this oversight have been reported thus far. However, consumers who purchased these sandwiches are encouraged to return them to the point of purchase for a full refund or to dispose of the products safely.

Brioche Bread Recall from Bakery Group

In a separate incident, the Bakery Group in Dallas announced a recall involving hundreds of cases of brioche bread, including Dense Brioche Pullman loaves and hamburger buns. This warning was also triggered by undeclared allergens—specifically milk, soy, and yellow dye No. 5. The recall concerns 629 cases of Dense Brioche Pullman loaves with product code 654203 and 104 cases of Brioche HB Buns carrying product code 54500.

These brioche products were distributed by Ben E. Keith Co. in Fort Worth and served retail outlets like Rodeo Goat Casa Linda in Dallas. The sales period for these items spanned from December 24, 2024, to March 12, 2025. The Bakery Group voluntarily initiated the recall on March 25, 2025, after discovering the labeling issue during a routine health inspection.

Health Implications for Consumers

Consumers with allergies to soy, wheat, milk, or yellow dye No. 5 are strongly urged to avoid these products due to the risk of severe allergic reactions, which can be life-threatening for sensitive individuals. Ensuring the safety of food products is critical and improper labeling not only undermines public health but also reflects areas where food manufacturers need to improve. The Bakery Group attributed the mislabeling to human error in its labeling and packaging department, which has since been corrected.

Next Steps for Affected Consumers

Customers who might have purchased either the chicken salad sandwiches or the brioche bread products are advised to check their products against the recall notifications provided by the FDA. For the chicken salad sandwiches, returning them for a refund or discarding them is recommended. Similarly, those who have brioche products with the mentioned codes should take similar actions to ensure their safety.

Ongoing Awareness and Prevention Measures

Food safety remains a paramount concern for both consumers and manufacturers. Regulatory bodies like the FDA play a vital role in ensuring that food companies adhere to strict labeling guidelines to prevent these situations. Regular inspections are crucial for maintaining food safety standards. Additionally, consumers must remain vigilant, read labels carefully, and report any concerns regarding food safety to the appropriate authorities.

Final Thoughts on Food Safety Initiatives

These recent recalls highlight the ongoing challenges faced by food manufacturers in maintaining accurate labeling practices. As consumers, being informed and proactive can help protect against severe allergic reactions and ensure overall food safety. Staying updated on recalls and actively participating in safety measures puts consumers in a better position to safeguard their health.

In summary, both the chicken salad sandwiches from Cromer Food Services and the brioche products from the Bakery Group serve as reminders of the critical nature of accurate food labeling. Consumers should prioritize verification of their purchased items and stay informed about food safety issues that may affect them.