Bread lovers in 12 states are being urged to check their kitchens after a major recall hit both Kroger and Walmart stores.
On July 10, Hartford Bakery, Inc. announced the voluntary recall of six specific lots of its Lewis Baked Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf due to the presence of hazelnuts, an ingredient that wasn’t listed on the packaging. The FDA issued an urgent warning as the hidden ingredient poses a life-threatening risk to those with nut allergies. While only one consumer has reported digestive discomfort so far, the company is not taking any chances, pulling nearly 900 loaves from store shelves.
The affected loaves were distributed across Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Arkansas, Missouri, Alabama, and Mississippi. That’s a huge stretch of the U.S., so if you’ve picked up bread at Kroger or Walmart recently, it’s worth double-checking your bag. The key indicators include lot codes like T10 174010206 through T10 174020406, an expiration date of 07/13/2025, a 12oz (340g) net weight, and UPC 24126018152. All of this info is printed on the packaging.
The issue came to light during an internal packaging investigation. The label warned the bread “May Contain Tree Nuts” but failed to say it contains hazelnuts. That subtle difference is critical for people with allergies. Hartford Bakery confirmed in a statement that some customers had spotted the nuts before taking a bite and reached out to report the discrepancy. Another consumer reported mild symptoms, but thankfully no hospitalizations or anaphylaxis incidents have been linked to the recall yet.
Nut allergies can range from mildly irritating to completely life-threatening. Symptoms like hives, stomach pain, itching, or a scratchy throat are just the start. In severe cases, known as anaphylaxis, hazelnuts can cause airway swelling, breathing difficulties, fainting, and even death. It’s a medical emergency that requires an EpiPen and immediate hospital care.
So far, Hartford Bakery has praised the quick consumer response and reminded shoppers that any recalled loaf can be returned to the original store for a full refund. Anyone with questions or symptoms after eating the bread should contact their doctor or allergist ASAP.
This situation highlights just how dangerous label mix-ups can be, especially when it comes to allergens. Even though no serious injuries have been reported yet, food safety watchdogs are keeping a close eye on further developments. For now, the FDA and Hartford Bakery are urging consumers to check their pantry and freezer and avoid any of the flagged products.
