Chocolate recall update: “Life-threatening” warning issued

Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils have been recalled from stores in eight states and Washington, D.C., following the discovery of undeclared milk allergens in the product’s packaging.

The recall, announced by Mellace Family Brands California, Inc. on June 25, encompasses specific batches sold at Wegmans retail locations in Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and the D.C.

“People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product,” the company said.

Why It Matters

Food recalls due to undeclared allergens continue to be a critical public health issue in the United States. Individuals with milk allergies face the constant risk of accidental exposure to this common allergen, which can cause serious—and sometimes fatal—reactions.

What To Know

Mellace Family Brands California, Inc. recalled Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils after discovering the product contained undeclared milk allergens. The recall applies to 18.5-ounce containers labeled with the following best by and lot codes:

• 55021 BEST BY: DEC 28, 2025
• 55031 BEST BY: DEC 29, 2025
• 55491 BEST BY: FEB 13, 2026
• 55501 BEST BY: FEB 14, 2026
• 56061 BEST BY: APR 11, 2026
• 56071 BEST BY: APR 12, 2026

The product features UPC 0 77890 49787 6.

The issue was attributed to a temporary breakdown in the supplier’s manufacturing process, resulting in the presence of milk in products labeled as milk-free. As of June 30, no illnesses have been reported, according to the company.

Consumers who have purchased Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils with the above lot codes are “urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund,” according to the company announcement published by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Monday.

What People Are Saying

Dr. Sebastian Lighvani, the director of New York Allergy & Asthma PLLC, previously told Newsweek: “Every three minutes in the United States, someone ends up in an emergency room because of an allergic reaction after accidental ingestion of food. So even when we try hard, these reactions are happening. And if you look at the incidence of anaphylaxis, it has skyrocketed in the last five, 10, 20 years. And in the U.S., there’s like a 300 to 400 percent increase in the rates of anaphylaxis to foods.”

What Happens Next

Customers with questions can contact Wegmans Food Markets at 1-855-934-3663 daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.

The FDA encourages anyone experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction after consuming these products to seek medical attention and submit a report through its online complaint system.