Take a moment to check that bag of Fresh Gourmet tortilla strips on your kitchen counter. There’s a chance it may contain fried onions instead of tortilla strips. According to regulators, packs that should contain tortilla strips are being recalled due to a potential mix-up that swapped the tortilla strips with crispy onion strips.
These products were sold in numerous cities, including Detroit. Major retailers such as Walmart, Kroger, Target, Save-A-Lot, and others have listed them for sale on their websites. If you’ve recently purchased Fresh Gourmet tortilla strips, here’s what you need to know about the recall.
Why Are the Tortilla Strips Being Recalled?
Because they may contain undeclared wheat, Sugar Foods recalls 3.5-ounce pouches of Fresh Gourmet Tortilla Strips Santa Fe Style. The crispy onion strips found in some of the packages contain wheat, which is not listed on the label for the tortilla strips. This mix-up poses a significant health risk.
According to a recall notice posted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “People who have a wheat allergy or severe sensitivity to wheat run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the product.” As of now, no illnesses have been reported related to this issue.
The incident began when a customer reported finding a bag of tortilla strips that contained the company’s crispy onion strips. Upon investigation, it was discovered that some packages intended for tortilla strips were mistakenly filled with fried onions. This error led to the presence of undeclared wheat in products labeled as gluten-free.
Which Tortilla Strips Products Are Affected?
The recall specifically affects Fresh Gourmet Tortilla Strips Santa Fe Style with the following details:
- UPC Code: 7 87359 17504 6
- Best By Date: June 20, 2025
These are 3.5-ounce pouches that may have been mislabeled and could contain crispy onion strips instead of tortilla strips.
When and Where Were the Affected Products Distributed?
The recalled products were sent to distribution centers between September 30 and November 11. They were distributed to over 20 states across the country. The affected states include:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Maine
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
If you reside in any of these states and have recently purchased Fresh Gourmet tortilla strips, it’s important to check your pantry.
What Should Consumers Do?
If you have purchased the recalled Fresh Gourmet Tortilla Strips Santa Fe Style:
- Do Not Consume the Product: Especially if you have a wheat allergy or sensitivity.
- Check the Packaging: Verify if your product matches the UPC code 7 87359 17504 6 and has the best by date of June 20, 2025.
- Return the Product: You can return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- Contact the Company: You can contact Sugar Foods directly for any questions or concerns. They can provide additional information and guidance.
The primary concern is for individuals with wheat allergies or severe sensitivities. Consuming wheat when you’re allergic can lead to symptoms ranging from mild reactions like hives or itching to severe and life-threatening conditions like anaphylaxis. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction may include:
- Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness or loss of consciousness
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms after consuming the product, seek medical attention immediately.
There Are No Reports of Illness to Date!
The latest reports show no illnesses or adverse reactions have been linked to this recall. The prompt action by the customer who reported the issue and the subsequent recall by Sugar Foods aims to prevent potential health risks.
Sugar Foods has taken steps to address the situation:
- Issuing a Voluntary Recall: The company has voluntarily recalled the affected products to ensure consumer safety.
- Investigating the Cause: They are looking into how the mix-up occurred to prevent future incidents.
- Enhancing Quality Control: Measures are being reviewed and improved to ensure product integrity and labeling accuracy.
This incident highlights the importance of accurate food labeling, especially for consumers with allergies and sensitivities. Undeclared allergens in food products can pose serious health risks. Manufacturers must legally list all major food allergens on their product labels.
Staying Informed About Recalls
Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food recalls by:
- Regularly Checking the FDA Website: The FDA posts recall notices and safety alerts.
- Signing Up for Alerts: You can receive email notifications about recalls and safety information.
- Reading Product Labels Carefully: Always check ingredient lists, especially if you have food allergies.
Food safety is a shared responsibility among manufacturers, regulators, retailers, and consumers. While mistakes can happen, swift action and transparency are key to protecting public health. If you have any Fresh Gourmet Tortilla Strips Santa Fe Style in your home, take a moment to verify whether they are part of the recall.
By staying vigilant and taking the recommended steps, you can help ensure your safety and that of your loved ones. If you have friends or family who might have purchased this product, consider sharing this information with them.
Remember, your health and safety come first. Always pay attention to recall notices and take appropriate action when necessary.
