- Date Issued: December 5, 2024
- Announced By: FDA and Atkinson Milling Company
- Affected Products: Atkinson’s Frozen Hushpuppies
- Issue: Undeclared milk allergen
- Health Risks: Severe allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to milk
- What to Do: Return the product for a refund or contact Atkinson’s for more details
Stick around for the full story behind this recall and why it matters for food safety!
What happened?
On December 5, 2024, Atkinson Milling Company, based in Selma, NC, recalled multiple frozen hushpuppy products due to an undeclared milk allergen. This issue was discovered during an internal review on November 29, 2024. The company promptly reported the labeling oversight to the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and the FDA. During a routine label review, the company’s internal quality control flagged the missing milk allergen declaration. While no illnesses have been reported, the recall was issued as a precaution. These products were distributed across retail and wholesale stores in Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Products Affected:
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Best By Dates |
Atkinson’s | Hushpuppies with onions | 1 lb | 0 72119 20718 2 | Before 7/24/2026 |
Atkinson’s | Hushpuppies with onions | 2 lb 8 0z | 0 72119 20305 4 | Before 11/11/2026 |
Atkinson’s | Hushpuppies with onions | 2 lb 8 0z | 0 72119 20304 7 | Before 10/16/2026 |
What caused the issue?
The issue was caused by a labeling error. Milk, a known allergen, was omitted from the “ingredients” and “contains” sections. Milk allergies can trigger severe reactions, especially in sensitive groups. While no adverse events have been reported, the recall is a crucial preventive measure.
Symptoms may include:
- Hives or rash
- Difficulty breathing
- Digestive issues
- Anaphylaxis in extreme cases
Here’s what you should do
If you’ve purchased these hushpuppies, here’s how to handle the situation:
- Check the Label: Look for the Sell By Date located on the back or end of the package.
- Return the Product: Bring it to the point of purchase for a full refund.
- Contact Atkinson’s: Call their Consumer Department at 1-800-948-5707, Monday through Friday, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm EST.
Behind the brand
Atkinson Milling Company has been a trusted name in Southern cooking for years. While this recall marks a rare misstep, the company is committed to rigorous food safety measures. Undeclared allergens have been a recurring issue in the industry this year. For example, Bowl and Baskets’ recent recall highlighted the risks of improper labeling for packaged foods, recalling their Onion Soup Mix due to an undeclared egg allergen.
“The key to managing a recall effectively is preparation long before an issue arises. With robust traceability systems, strong supplier partnerships, and proactive quality controls in place, you can minimize risks and respond with confidence. Preparedness isn’t just a strategy—it’s a promise to your customers and your brand.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’ CEO.
Ensuring safe eats
This recall underscores the importance of accurate labeling and proactive quality control. Undeclared allergens pose significant risks, especially for those sourcing products.
Prevention is the cornerstone of avoiding costly mistakes like mislabeling. Conducting regular label audits helps companies identify and correct errors before products reach distribution, safeguarding both consumers and brand reputation. When issues do arise, transparency becomes equally critical. Acting swiftly and communicating clearly during recalls not only mitigates risks but also reinforces trust with consumers and partners, demonstrating a company’s commitment to accountability and safety.
Need help sourcing safe, high-quality ingredients? Contact Source86 and explore our range of premium products to keep your operations running smoothly!
