Undeclared Eggs Prompt Voluntary Recall by Roly Poly Bakery
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Food, Standards and Product Safety Division (DCP) has announced a recall of 20-ounce loaves of Multigrain Bread sold at several grocery stores in Connecticut and Massachusetts. The recall was initiated due to the presence of undeclared eggs in the bread, which could pose a serious health risk to individuals with egg allergies or sensitivities.
Affected Stores and Locations
The recalled Multigrain Bread was sold at the following grocery stores:
- Polmart (New Britain, CT)
- New Britain Market Place (New Britain, CT)
- Bernat’s Polish Meat Products (Chicopee, MA)
- Golemo Market (Worcester, MA)
The bread was manufactured by Roly Poly Bakery, located in New Britain, Connecticut. Upon discovering the labeling error, Roly Poly Bakery issued a voluntary recall to ensure the safety of its customers.
Health Risks and Consumer Advice
The presence of undeclared eggs in the Multigrain Bread can be especially dangerous for individuals with an egg allergy or severe sensitivity. The DCP has issued the following guidance for consumers:
“Consumers with an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs should not consume the product and seek medical assistance immediately if they experience a medical emergency. No illnesses have been reported to DCP to date.”
Customers who have purchased the affected Multigrain Bread are advised to either dispose of the product or return it to the store where it was purchased for a full refund.
Importance of Accurate Labeling and Allergen Declarations
This recall highlights the critical importance of accurate labeling and allergen declarations on food products. Manufacturers have a responsibility to clearly identify any potential allergens in their products to ensure the safety of consumers with food allergies or sensitivities.
According to the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA), the eight major food allergens that must be declared on food labels are:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Fish
- Crustacean shellfish
- Tree nuts
- Peanuts
- Wheat
- Soybeans
Allergen | Potential Reactions |
---|---|
Eggs | Hives, itching, swelling, digestive issues, anaphylaxis |
Milk | Hives, wheezing, vomiting, anaphylaxis |
Peanuts | Anaphylaxis, hives, itching, swelling |
Tree nuts | Anaphylaxis, itching, swelling, digestive issues |
Fish | Hives, swelling, digestive issues, anaphylaxis |
Crustacean shellfish | Hives, itching, swelling, digestive issues, anaphylaxis |
Wheat | Hives, swelling, digestive issues, anaphylaxis |
Soybeans | Hives, itching, swelling, digestive issues, anaphylaxis |
Table 1: The eight major food allergens and their potential reactions
Conclusion
The recall of Multigrain Bread by Roly Poly Bakery serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance when it comes to food allergies and sensitivities. Consumers with egg allergies or sensitivities should be cautious when purchasing bread products and always check the labels for any undeclared allergens.
Food manufacturers must prioritize accurate labeling and allergen declarations to protect the health and well-being of their customers. By working together, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers can help prevent potentially life-threatening allergic reactions and ensure a safer food supply for all.