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Recall of Golden Raisin triggers life-threatening warning


Recall of Golden Raisin triggers life-threatening warning

A recall notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns consumers of potentially life-threatening reactions due to an undeclared ingredient in packaged sultanas.

The advisory, posted on the FDA’s website on Monday, warns that people with “an allergy or severe sensitivity to sulfites” should purchase 1-ounce packages of Terrafina Golden Raisins because the food additive may be included without proper labeling.

The recall was initiated by manufacturer Sunco & Frenchie LLC of Pine Brook, New Jersey, after “routine sampling” by state inspectors revealed that the raisins contained sulfites without the ingredient being listed on the packaging.

“Consumers who have purchased Terrafina branded Golden Raisins are urged not to consume the products and to return them to the point of purchase for a full refund of the purchase price,” the statement said.

Golden Raisin Recall Sulfites FDA Warning Allergies
In this undated file photo, golden raisins are shown in a wooden spoon and on a table. Some packs of Terrafina Golden Raisins were recalled on Monday due to the undeclared presence of sulphites, which…


ElenaYemchuk

The recalled products were sold in New York City retail stores in square, clear plastic containers with an orange label on the front. The label on the back indicates that the product was distributed by Smith Valley Foods LLC.

The affected units all have the UPC number 847938001385 and a best before date of “05/2025” or “08/2025.” The lot numbers of the recalled raisins are GRA240602 and GDR240901.

Raisin buyers with additional questions or concerns may contact the company by phone at 973-478-1011 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern Time.

At the time of publication, no illnesses had been reported in connection with the recall.

Newsweek reached Sunco & Frenchie LLC via email Monday evening for comment.

While dark-colored raisins often contain no added sulfites, sultanas and other light-colored dried fruits are often treated with sulfur dioxide and sulfites to prevent darkening during the drying process. Sulfites also occur naturally in wine and foods such as tomatoes, onions, eggs, garlic and maple syrup.

The presence of sulfites should not cause major health concerns for most consumers. However, people with an allergy to them may experience the sometimes fatal condition of anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention as symptoms include throat swelling, difficulty breathing, sudden drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness. Other symptoms of severe allergic reactions include rashes, hives, itching, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, sulfites can also trigger asthma attacks when consumed in large amounts. Studies suggest that up to 10 percent of asthmatics are sensitive to sulfites.

Although sulfites are not on the list, the FDA has classified the following nine food ingredients as “major food allergens”: milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, sesame seeds and soybeans.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 6 percent of adults and 8 percent of children in the United States have at least one food allergy.

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