- Date Issued: April 8, 2025
- Announced by: FDA on April 8, 2025
- Company: Caraluzzi’s Markets
- Product: Caraluzzi’s Italian Style Seafood Burger, 8 oz
- Issue: Undeclared egg allergen
- Details: Sold between February 18 and April 2 at Caraluzzi’s locations in CT
- Action: Return to store for full refund; avoid if allergic to egg
Wanna know more about what happened? Stick around to find out the whole scoop.
What happened?
On April 8, 2025, Caraluzzi’s Markets issued a recall for their 8 oz Italian Style Seafood Burgers due to a major labeling mishap: the product contains egg, but you wouldn’t know it from the label. The oversight was discovered after a consumer experienced an allergic reaction—fortunately, the only reported case so far.
The product was sold in-store only across Bethel, Wilton, Newtown, and Danbury, Connecticut, between February 18 and April 2, 2025. The recall was initiated after a consumer complaint, followed by an internal investigation that confirmed the labeling error.
Product details
Brand | Product Name | Size | UPC | Best By | Issue |
Caraluzzi’s | Italian Style Seafood Burger | 8 oz | 0-95864-80008-8 | 01/16/2026 | Undeclared egg allergen |
What caused the issue?
The root of the issue? A labeling error—plain and simple, but potentially dangerous. The Caraluzzi’s Italian Style Seafood Burgers were found to contain egg without disclosing it on the ingredient label or allergen warning. That’s a big deal for people with egg allergies, one of the top eight most common food allergens regulated under the FDA’s Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA).
Why undeclared allergens matter
An undeclared allergen isn’t just a small print problem—it’s a serious health hazard. In people with an egg allergy, exposure can trigger an immune response that ranges from mild to life-threatening. Even trace amounts of egg in food can cause a reaction.
Who’s at risk?
- Children and infants (egg allergies are more common in young kids)
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Anyone with a known egg allergy or sensitivity
- Elderly consumers who may already have dietary restrictions
Symptoms of an egg allergy reaction
Symptoms can appear within minutes to a couple of hours after eating the allergen:
- Skin reactions (hives, rash, redness, swelling)
- Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Nasal congestion or sneezing
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Anaphylaxis (a potentially deadly reaction that requires immediate emergency treatment)
So far, one allergic reaction has been reported—but that’s enough to raise alarm and prompt the recall.
10 common questions you might have
1. What’s the issue with this seafood burger?
A: The burgers contain egg, but it’s not listed on the label. That’s a big problem for people with egg allergies.
2. Is this a safety recall or just a labeling issue?
A: Both. It’s a labeling issue with serious safety implications for those with allergies.
3. What should I do if I bought this product?
A: Return it to the store for a full refund, especially if someone in your household has an egg allergy.
4. How do I know if I have the affected product?
A: Look for the 8 oz size, UPC 0-95864-80008-8, expiration date of 01/16/2026, sold between Feb 18–Apr 2.
5. I already ate the burger and feel fine—should I worry?
A: If you have no egg allergy, you’re in the clear. But if you’re allergic or unsure, contact a medical professional.
6. Can I just cook it more to kill the allergen?
A: No. Allergens like egg proteins aren’t “cooked out.” If you’re allergic, don’t eat it.
7. Has Caraluzzi’s had recalls like this before?
A: Not frequently, but allergen labeling issues happen across the industry. (See other recalls here).
8. Why is egg such a common allergen?
A: It contains proteins that many immune systems see as threats. It’s one of the FDA’s top 8 allergens.
9. Can I still shop at Caraluzzi’s safely?
A: Yes—but if you have food allergies, always double-check labels and ask store staff if you’re unsure.
10. Who do I contact with questions or concerns?
A: Call Caraluzzi’s at 203-748-3547 or email [email protected].
Here’s what you should do
If you bought this product and have an egg allergy (or cook for someone who does), take action:
- Check the label: Look for the blue overwrap and expiration date 01/16/2026.
- Find the UPC: 0-95864-80008-8, located on the packaging.
- Bought it? Return it to the store for a full refund.
- Still unsure? Contact Caraluzzi’s directly:
203-748-3547
[email protected]
Behind the brand
Caraluzzi’s Markets is a regional grocery chain in Connecticut known for fresh, local products and gourmet offerings. While this may be their first publicized recall involving allergens, other brands have had similar issues lately:
- On March 14, 2025, C.H. Guenther & Son LLC initiated a recall of its 365 Whole Foods Market Small Bites Macaroni & Cheese due to undeclared egg and meat ingredients.
- On March 14, 2025, HAR Maspeth Corp issued a recall for its “Jinga Glass Noodles with Vegetables (Japche)” due to undeclared eggs.
These incidents are part of a broader industry pattern that shows how easy it is to overlook allergens during production or packaging—but how serious the consequences can be.
“Labeling mistakes aren’t just technical errors—they pose real risks to people with food allergies. When allergens like eggs are left off packaging, it puts consumers at risk and damages trust in the brand. This recall is a clear reminder of why strict quality checks and transparent labeling are non-negotiable in today’s food industry.” — Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86
Ensuring safe eats
Recalls like this highlight the critical need for stringent allergen labeling—especially in co-manufacturing and private label products. Whether you’re an importer, wholesaler, or co-packer, accurate labeling isn’t just a regulatory checkbox—it’s a matter of public health.
Let’s break it down:
- Always double-check labels during production runs.
- Conduct regular audits for allergen handling.
- Prioritize transparency when sourcing bulk ingredients.
And hey—if you’re tired of playing ingredient roulette, talk to our team at Source86. We’re all about delivering high-quality, properly labeled ingredients. For more insights, feel free to contact us or explore our range of clean-label ingredients. Let’s chat!
