Popcorn Recall Update as FDA Sets Risk Level

Popcorn produced by an Oregon-based firm that was recalled earlier this summer has now been issued a risk classification by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Kester Foods LLC, based in Eugene, issued a recall in August for Butter & Yeast Popcorn manufactured by Yummy Monkey Organics, because the labels did not declare the presence of milk, only butter and ghee.
The recall, which was initiated on August 8, impacted 365 units distributed in California and Oregon.
More From Newsweek Vault: What Is a Health Savings Account?
The affected batches had “enjoy by” dates of 9/21/24 and 10/13/24, and were identified by the UPC code 9 96692 66641 2. They were packaged in clear polyethylene gusseted reclosable bags, and weighed 5.25oz.
The FDA has now issued a Class II risk classification for the recall as of September 10.
A Class II recall is “a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
Newsweek has contacted Kester Food LLC and Yummy Monkey Organics for comment outside of normal working hours.
More From Newsweek Vault: Compare the Top Health Savings Account (HSA) Providers
Milk is one of nine “major food allergens” as defined in legislation, and cross-contamination can trigger the potentially deadly condition of anaphylaxis in those with a milk allergy.
More From Newsweek Vault: Online Banks vs. Traditional Banks: Learn the Differences
The other major allergens include: eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish (for example crab, lobster, shrimp), tree nuts (including almonds, walnuts and pecans), peanuts, wheat, soybeans and sesame.
Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention and can lead to constricted airways in the lungs, severe lowering of blood pressure and shock, and suffocation by swelling of the throat and larynx.
Other symptoms of serious allergic reactions include hives; flushed skin or rashes; a tingling or itchy sensation in the mouth; face, tongue or lip swelling; vomiting and diarrhea; abdominal cramps; coughing or wheezing; dizziness or lightheadedness; swelling of the throat and vocal cords; difficulty breathing; and loss of consciousness.
About 6.2 percent of U.S. adults have at least one food allergy, according to the National Center for Health Statistics.
In addition to allergy concerns, milk poses a risk for people with lactose intolerance, which is the inability to properly digest a type of sugar that is present in dairy products.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance include bloating, diarrhea, gas, nausea and abdominal pain, according to the National Institutes of Health. The condition can also lead to long-term adverse health effects by blocking the absorption of calcium and vitamin D.
Is there a health problem that’s worrying you? Let us know via [email protected]. We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured in Newsweek.