A recall notice shared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) this week is warning consumers of potentially life-threatening reactions due to an undeclared ingredient in packaged golden raisins.
Nirwana Foods of New Jersey has issued a voluntary recall of its 28-ounce Golden Raisin pouches due to undeclared sulfites that could trigger serious allergic reactions.
Newsweek reached out to Nirwana Foods via email on Saturday for comment.
Why It Matters
This recall highlights a critical food safety gap that could endanger consumers with sulfite allergies, who may experience life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. While sulfites are commonly used in golden raisins to prevent darkening during processing, federal regulations require clear labeling of these additives.
The incident underscores the importance of accurate ingredient disclosure, particularly as food allergies affect nearly 6 percent of U.S. adults and 8 percent of children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
What To Know
The recalled products, distributed under lot number 24/351-2410, were sold at Maharaja Super Market locations in New York and Villager Farmers Market stores across New York and New Jersey. The FDA announced the recall on Thursday after routine testing by New York State agriculture inspectors revealed sulfites in products whose packaging failed to disclose their presence.
The recalled golden raisins come in clear plastic 28-ounce pouches marked with UPC code 712321993144 and an expiration date of October 31, 2025. No illnesses have been reported to date, but sulfite-sensitive individuals face significant health risks including throat swelling, breathing difficulties, sudden blood pressure drops, and loss of consciousness requiring immediate medical attention.
Golden raisins typically contain sulfur dioxide and sulfites to maintain their light color, unlike dark raisins which generally don’t require these additives. Sulfites also occur naturally in various foods including wine, tomatoes, onions, and maple syrup.
While not classified among the FDA’s nine major allergens, sulfites can trigger severe reactions in sensitive individuals and may provoke asthma attacks in up to 10 percent of people with asthma.
What People Are Saying
The FDA in a January 2025 press release: “To protect those with food allergies and other food hypersensitivities, the FDA enforces regulations requiring companies to list ingredients on packaged foods and beverages. For certain foods or substances that cause allergies or other hypersensitivity reactions, there are more specific labeling requirements.”
What Happens Next
Consumers who purchased the recalled golden raisins should immediately return them to their place of purchase for a full refund. Those with questions can contact Nirwana Foods directly at (201) 659-2200.
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