Virginia residents may be interested in knowing about a recall by Giant Eagle because of a labeling error that could cause health problems for those with peanut allergies. According to a press release from the supermarket chain, Candy Place Chocolate Santas were sold in stores in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Maryland beginning on Oct. 1, 2013. The store says that nearly 1,100 units had been sold since that time.
The defective product reportedly mentioned peanut butter on its label but didn’t fully disclose that peanuts were an ingredient. If eaten by someone with a peanut allergy, the candy could lead to a serious or life-threatening illness. The candy was sold in 11-ounce packages and came in chocolate, caramel and peanut butter varieties. No illnesses have yet been reported as a result of the consumption of the candy.
Individuals who purchased the candy can return it to any Giant Eagle location for a full refund. Individuals with questions about the recall are recommended to call the candy’s manufacturer, George J. Howe Company. Giant Eagle has also proactively reached out to customers by using sales data and contact information available through their Giant Eagle Advantage Card® database.
Consumption of allergen ingredients can cause severe illness in those with allergies. Food products are often required to disclose allergen ingredients to protect consumers from allergic reactions. While there are regulations in place, sometimes products are released without the appropriate disclosures. Individuals who suffer an allergic reaction because of the consumed food that wasn’t properly labeled may be able to pursue defective product or personal injury litigation against the manufacturer who made it and the retailer who sold it. A personal injury attorney could advise the individual on whether a suit is likely to succeed and then represent the individual in any legal proceedings.
Source: FDA, “Giant Eagle Issues Allergy Alert On Undeclared Peanut Allergen In Candy Place Chocolate Santas”, December 28, 2013