Hostess Recalls Ding Dongs Over Mold

Hostess recall: quick summary

Hostess is recalling select Ding Dongs after mold decided to RSVP earlier than expected. The recall affects 2-count, 10-count, and 16-count packs of Chocolate Ding Dongs with best-by dates ranging from August 30 to September 3, 2025. According to the company, a mechanical hiccup in production created the right conditions for mold to grow, though only five lots were impacted. Consumers don’t need to panic. Refunds and replacements are available for anyone holding onto these unexpectedly earthy treats.

What happened?

On August 25, 2025, The J.M. Smucker Co. issued a recall of Hostess Chocolate Ding Dongs due to the potential presence of mold. A pesky mechanical malfunction allowed conditions for mold to grow in five specific lots of products. The impacted items include 2-count, 10-count, and 16-count packs with best-by dates ranging from August 30 to September 3, 2025. The products were distributed nationwide, and at least one retailer, Tops, has notified customers.

Affected products

Brand	Product	Size	UPC	Best By Dates	Issue	Distribution
Hostess	Chocolate Ding Dongs (Single)	2-count	8-88109-01002	Aug. 30–Sept. 3, 2025	Mold	Nationwide
Hostess	Chocolate Ding Dongs (Box)	10-count	8-88109-11061	Aug. 30–Sept. 3, 2025	Mold	Nationwide
Hostess	Chocolate Ding Dongs (Family)	16-count	8-88109-11092	Aug. 30–Sept. 3, 2025	Mold	Nationwide

What caused the issue?

The culprit? Mold. A mechanical issue in the production line created just the right party environment for fungi to show up before the best-by date. Eating moldy Ding Dongs isn’t exactly the snack break you’re dreaming of. Symptoms can include nausea, upset stomach, or worse, depending on the mold type. Sensitive groups like children, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk. Luckily, no illnesses have been reported.

Questions you might have

1. Can I still eat the recalled Ding Dongs if they look fine?
   Nope. Mold doesn’t always show up on the surface first.
2. Were all Hostess products recalled?
   No, just Ding Dongs from five lots.
3. How do I know if mine are part of the recall?
   Check the UPC codes and best-by dates listed above.
4. What should I do with the recalled snacks?
   Toss them out or bring them back to the store for a refund.
5. Will Hostess replace my moldy Ding Dongs?
   Yes, you can get a full refund or replacement.
6. How did this happen?
   A mechanical malfunction allowed mold-friendly conditions.
7. Are there any reported illnesses?
   None so far.
8. Where were these products sold?
   Distributed nationwide in the U.S.
9. Can I call someone for more info?
   Yes, contact Hostess at 800-483-7253.
10. Is mold always dangerous?
    Some molds are less harmful, but none are welcome in your dessert.

Here’s what you should do

• Don’t eat the recalled Ding Dongs.
• Look for the UPC and best-by dates on the packaging.
• Identify affected products using the table above.
• For questions, call Hostess at 800-483-7253.

Behind the brand

The J.M. Smucker Co., owner of the Hostess brand, is a major player in packaged foods, spanning snacks, coffee, spreads, and pet food. While Ding Dongs are famous for their chocolatey shell and creamy filling, this recall shows even nostalgic snacks can have surprises.

Other relevant recalls

• TreeHouse Foods recalls chocolate pudding over swollen cans and microbial risk
• Martinelli’s recalls apple juice due to patulin contamination
• Red Shell recalls Teriyaki Sauce due to microbial growth concerns
• Danone US recalls International Delight coffee creamers due to spoilage and illness reports

“Food safety isn’t negotiable. Every recall is a reminder that supply chain excellence and strict quality checks are the backbone of consumer trust.” Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86

Ensuring safe eats

This moldy mishap highlights how even beloved brands like Hostess can face unexpected production problems. For the food industry, it’s a wake-up call: strict maintenance, tighter inspections, and fast communication are essential to keeping snacks safe. For consumers, it’s simple—double-check your labels, toss the affected product, and claim your refund.

At Source86, we help brands stay ahead of such challenges with bulk ingredients, private label services, food safety expertise, and supply chain excellence, because everyone deserves snacks that are fun, fluffy, and fungus-free. If you’d like to connect with our team to learn how we can support your business, contact us here.