East CK Trading, Inc., based in Long Island City, New York, has issued an urgent nationwide recall of its 8-ounce “Licorice Plum” food treats after tests revealed the presence of undeclared sulfites and an unapproved food dye, Amaranth (E123).
This recall is a serious alert for individuals with sulfite sensitivity, as ingesting even small amounts can lead to severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock in some cases.
The recalled Licorice Plum products were widely distributed across the United States through retail stores and mail orders. Packaged in clear 8-ounce plastic bottles, the affected product carries the UPC code 0077-20729. The issue was discovered following routine sampling conducted by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets food inspectors. Their lab analysis showed that each serving of the product contained a staggering 29.1 milligrams of sulfites. For perspective, individuals with sulfite sensitivity can react severely to just 10 milligrams per serving, making this a potentially dangerous snack for certain consumers.
No illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported so far, but authorities are not taking any chances. The recall is being carried out proactively to protect public health. Consumers who purchased the recalled Licorice Plum packages are strongly urged not to consume them and return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Questions or concerns can be directed to East CK Trading at 1-718-857-0008.
Alongside the undeclared sulfites, the product was also found to contain Amaranth (E123), a red dye that is banned in the United States for food use. The presence of both unlisted allergens and an unapproved colorant adds to the severity of the violation. While amaranth is permitted in certain countries, it has been banned by the FDA due to concerns over potential carcinogenic effects and allergic reactions.
This incident highlights the importance of accurate labeling and strict regulatory oversight in the food industry. Mislabeling, especially when allergens are involved, can lead to deadly consequences for consumers with sensitivities. This isn’t the first time a food product has been recalled due to undeclared ingredients, but the high concentration of sulfites and inclusion of an illegal additive make this case particularly serious.
Consumers are reminded to always check product labels carefully, and if in doubt, especially when it comes to sensitive ingredients like sulfites, contact the manufacturer. East CK Trading’s quick response to the findings is a step in the right direction, but it’s a stark reminder of how easy it is for something dangerous to slip through if checks aren’t thorough.
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