Here’s what you should know:
- Date: December 13. 2024
- Announced by: Food Safety News on January 23, 2025, and ongoing. Source, FDA.
- Company: Horizon Organic Dairy, LLC
- Brand: Horizon Organic
- Product: Horizon Organic Aseptic Plain Whole Milk 8 oz. 12 packs
- Issue: Potential for premature spoilage during shelf life.
Keep reading to find out more!
What happened?
On December 13. 2024, Horizon Organic Dairy, LLC, announced a recall for their Horizon Organic Aseptic Plain Whole Milk 8 oz. 12 packs since these products have the potential for premature spoilage during shelf life. The FDA announced this recall it’s still ongoing and classified it as a Class II recall but, no press release from the organization was published. The recalled products were distributed in Arizona, California, and Nevada.
Company | Brand | Product | Size | UPC Code | Best by dates | Issue |
Horizon Organic Dairy LLC | Horizon Organic | Horizon Organic Aseptic Plain Whole Milk | 8 oz. Single unit | 3663207127 | 3 MAR 2025, 04 MAR 2025, 06 MAR 2025, 07 MAR 2025 | Potential for premature spoilage during shelf life. |
Horizon Organic Dairy LLC | Horizon Organic | Horizon Organic Aseptic Plain Whole Milk | 12 packs | 3663207113 | 3 MAR 2025, 04 MAR 2025, 06 MAR 2025, 07 MAR 2025 | Potential for premature spoilage during shelf life. |
What caused the issue?
The primary concern with this recall is premature spoilage. What does that mean? Well, Horizon Organic’s Aseptic Plain Whole Milk is designed to last longer than regular milk due to its aseptic packaging, which is supposed to preserve the milk without refrigeration until after it’s opened. However, if the product spoils earlier than its best-before date, it could go sour and even grow harmful bacteria before you’ve even had a chance to enjoy it.
Health risks
While the milk is not contaminated with harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, spoiled milk can cause unpleasant symptoms such as:
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
In some cases, drinking spoiled milk might cause mild food poisoning, but that’s rare if the milk is just a bit off. However, it could still lead to an unpleasant experience. So, even if you don’t technically get sick from it, you definitely won’t want to sip on sour milk while reading the morning news.
The groups at highest risk of foodborne illness in general would include:
- Children
- Elderly adults
- Pregnant women
- Those with weakened immune systems
If someone in your household is in one of these vulnerable groups, the risk becomes a bit more serious, even with the possibility of premature spoilage.
Here are 10 questions you might have about the recall:
1. What exactly is the problem with the Horizon Organic milk?
The milk could spoil prematurely before its best-before date, meaning it may go sour while still within the date range printed on the carton.
2. How do I know if I have the affected milk?
Check the UPC code (3663207113 for the 12-pack and 3663207127 for the single unit) and compare the best-by dates. Affected dates are March 3, 4, 6, and 7, 2025. If it matches, it’s likely part of the recall.
3. Is it dangerous to drink spoiled milk?
Drinking spoiled milk can cause mild symptoms like nausea, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. While the milk in this recall isn’t linked to harmful bacteria, it could still result in a bad experience, so it’s best to avoid consuming it.
4. How do I get a refund or replacement for my milk?
Contact Horizon Organic Dairy directly through their customer service. They should be able to help you with either a refund or a replacement for the affected product.
5. I’ve already consumed some of the milk – what should I do?
If you haven’t experienced any symptoms yet, you’re probably okay. But if you start feeling nauseous, have stomach cramps, or experience diarrhea, seek medical attention. It’s always best to err on the side of caution.
6. Could there be more milk products affected by this issue?
For now, the recall only applies to Horizon Organic Aseptic Plain Whole Milk in the 8 oz. 12-pack, but we suggest staying tuned for any further updates. The FDA will issue new information if more products are affected.
7. How can milk spoil early like this?
Aseptic packaging is meant to extend shelf life, but a manufacturing error or issue in the supply chain could cause the milk to spoil prematurely. This can happen if the product wasn’t sealed properly or exposed to conditions that affected its preservation.
8. What’s the best way to store milk to prevent it from spoiling early?
For milk in aseptic packaging, you should store it at room temperature before opening. Once opened, refrigerate it immediately. Always check the packaging for damage before you purchase it.
9. Can I still drink the milk if it hasn’t spoiled yet but is within the recall dates?
No, it’s best not to consume any recalled product, even if it seems fine. You could be taking a risk, and it’s just safer to return or dispose of the milk and avoid any potential health issues.
10. How does Horizon Organic plan to address this issue in the future?
Horizon Organic has already issued this recall and is likely reviewing its manufacturing and quality control processes to ensure this doesn’t happen again. They will likely be more diligent in checking their stock and quality control moving forward.
Here’s what you should do
If you have purchased this product, take action! Here’s how:
- Check the label:
UPC: 3663207113 (12 pack); 3663207127 (single unit)
Best By/Before: 3 MAR 2025, 04 MAR 2025, 06 MAR 2025, 07 MAR 2025 - Identify the product:
Horizon Organic Aseptic Plain Whole Milk 8 oz. 12 packs - What you should do:
Retailers and consumers should not use, sell, serve, or distribute the affected product. - Contact info:
The FDA hasn’t provided details on how to contact the company.
Behind the brand
Horizon Organic is a dairy company that produces organic milk and other organic food products. It’s the largest supplier of organic milk in North America with products in most grocery stores. Lately, the industry has been hit with many recalls related to production or packaging mistakes. On January 7, Apna Wholesale Inc. recalled their 7oz and 14oz Paras Premium Golden Raisins because they contain undeclared Sulphur Dioxide (sulfites). Also, on January 15, New York Mutual Trading Co., Inc. issued a recall for its 7.05 oz Prepared Monkfish Liver after discovering undeclared milk in the product. Lastly Mr.Bing recalled its Sriracha Chili Sauce due to potential spoilage.
Ensuring safe eats!
When something like this happens, it reminds us that even trusted brands can face product hiccups. That’s why it’s crucial to stay informed about food recalls. While we haven’t heard of anyone getting sick from this specific milk mishap, it doesn’t hurt to double-check your pantry.
“In the natural ingredient sourcing industry, quality control is paramount. Even the best brands can face challenges when it comes to ensuring products meet their promised shelf life. This recall is a reminder that transparency and rigorous testing are key to maintaining consumer trust and safety. It’s crucial for companies to stay vigilant, continuously improve their processes, and always put the consumer’s well-being first.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’s CEO.
Wanna know more about recalls like this one? Talk to our team!
