- Date Issued: February 5, 2025
- Company: Feel Good Foods Inc.
- Product: Three Cheese Mac & Cheese Bites
- Issue: Potential contamination with metal pieces
- Product Details: 8 oz (224g) packages; Best By Dates: 06/19/26 and 06/20/26; Lot Numbers: 24354AV1 and 24355AV1; UPC Code: 899039002808
- Action: Consumers advised to discard or return products for a refund
Wanna know more about what happened? Keep on reading.
What happened?
On February 5, 2025, Feel Good Foods Inc., a Brooklyn-based producer of gluten-free frozen foods, voluntarily recalled specific lots of their Three Cheese Mac & Cheese Bites due to potential contamination with metal pieces. The issue was identified during routine quality checks, prompting the company to take immediate action to ensure consumer safety. The affected products were distributed nationwide to various retailers.
Affected products:
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Best By Date | Lot Number | Issue |
Feel Good Foods | Three Cheese Mac & Cheese Bites | 8 oz | 899039002808 | 06/19/26 | 24354AV1 | Potential metal contamination |
Feel Good Foods | Three Cheese Mac & Cheese Bites | 8 oz | 899039002808 | 06/20/26 | 24355AV1 | Potential metal contamination |
What caused the issue?
The recall was initiated after metal fragments were discovered in the production line during routine quality assurance processes. While no injuries have been reported, consuming products contaminated with metal pieces can pose serious health risks, including injury to teeth, mouth, throat, and digestive system. Feel Good Foods has ceased production and distribution of the affected product lines and is conducting a thorough investigation to prevent future occurrences.
Health risks & symptoms:
- Dental Injuries: Small metal shards can damage teeth, fillings, or dental work.
- Mouth & Throat Injuries: Swallowing sharp fragments can lead to cuts or irritation in the mouth and throat.
- Digestive System Damage: If swallowed, metal pieces may cause internal injuries, such as perforations or blockages in the stomach or intestines.
- Choking Hazard: Particularly for young children and elderly individuals, metal fragments present a serious choking risk.
- Infections & Complications: If an internal injury occurs, it can lead to infections or other complications requiring medical intervention.
Who’s at the highest risk?
While metal contamination can affect anyone, certain groups are more vulnerable:
- Children: Due to their smaller airways, they face a higher risk of choking.
- Elderly Individuals: Weakened digestive systems and slower recovery times make metal ingestion more dangerous.
- People with Digestive Disorders: Those with conditions like Crohn’s disease or diverticulitis may experience more severe complications if they ingest foreign objects.
10 common questions you may have
1. How did metal end up in the mac & cheese bites?
Metal contamination can occur due to faulty machinery or processing errors during manufacturing. In this case, the fragments were likely introduced through equipment malfunctions.
2. Have there been any reported injuries?
As of now, no confirmed injuries have been reported, but consumers are urged not to eat the recalled product to avoid potential risks.
3. What should I do if I’ve already eaten the product?
If you consumed the recalled product and feel fine, there’s likely no immediate danger. However, if you experience pain, difficulty swallowing, or signs of internal injury (such as vomiting blood or severe abdominal pain), seek medical attention immediately.
4. Can cooking or microwaving the product make it safe?
No. Cooking will not remove or break down metal fragments. If you have the affected product, do not consume it.
5. How do I check if my product is part of the recall?
Look at the Best By Date and Lot Number on the packaging:
- Best By: 06/19/26 (Lot 24354AV1) and 06/20/26 (Lot 24355AV1)
- UPC Code: 899039002808
If your product matches these details, it is part of the recall.
6. Can I get a refund for my purchase?
Yes. Most retailers will accept returns of recalled products, and Feel Good Foods encourages consumers to return the product to the store for a full refund.
7. What if I bought the mac & cheese bites in bulk?
Retailers and food service providers should immediately check their stock and remove the affected products from inventory. Contact Feel Good Foods for guidance on bulk returns.
8. How can I report a food safety issue?
If you suspect a food contamination issue, you can report it to the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program via this link.
9. Has Feel Good Foods had other recalls before?
No, this is the first reported recall from Feel Good Foods, and they are taking the issue seriously by investigating and enhancing safety protocols.
10. What steps can I take to avoid contaminated food in the future?
While recalls are unpredictable, you can stay informed by:
- Regularly checking the FDA’s recall alerts.
- Inspecting food packaging for any abnormalities before purchasing.
- Purchasing from brands with strong safety track records.
Here’s what you should do
- Check Your Freezer: Locate any Feel Good Foods Three Cheese Mac & Cheese Bites with the specified Best By Dates and Lot Numbers.
- Identify the Product: Confirm the UPC code (899039002808) and packaging details.
- Dispose or Return: If you possess the recalled product, do not consume it. Dispose of it safely or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- Contact Information: For questions or concerns, contact Feel Good Foods customer service at [email protected] or call 1-800-555-1234, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST.
Behind the brand
Founded in 2011 by Vanessa Phillips and Chef Tryg Siverson, Feel Good Foods is dedicated to offering chef-inspired, gluten-free comfort foods. The company’s mission is to make delicious, better-for-you versions of favorite foods accessible to everyone. This recall marks a significant event for the company, which has maintained a strong reputation for quality and safety. No previous recalls have been reported for Feel Good Foods, highlighting the seriousness with which they are addressing this incident.
However, in the past months, other recalls have been announced due to similar concerns. For instance, Bestway Sandwiches Inc. recalled frozen chicken & cheese taquitos due to metal contamination. Another similar recall was issued by Impossible Foods which recalled its ground sausage products also due to metal contamination. These incidents underscore the importance of stringent quality control measures in the food industry.
“Food safety isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting consumers and brand integrity. Preventing contamination requires strict equipment maintenance, supplier oversight, and transparent communication. In a fast-paced industry, vigilance is essential, as even one mistake can have widespread consequences.” – Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86
Ensuring safe eats
Food recalls like this highlight the critical need for rigorous safety standards in the food industry. Companies must implement robust quality control measures to prevent contamination and protect public health. As consumers, staying informed about such recalls is vital to ensure the safety of the products we consume.
Remember to check your freezer for the recalled products and follow the recommended actions if you find any. For more insights or to explore our range of high-quality ingredients, contact our team at Source86 today!
