Jalux Recalls L’espoir Cookies Over Undeclared Tree Nuts and Milk

Jalux Americas, Inc. Recall: Quick summary

• Jalux Americas (J.sweets) recalls L’espoir and Drycapot cookies over undeclared milk, almonds, and macadamia nuts.
• 60 units affected, sold exclusively at J.sweets stores in CA, IL, and WA.
• Products were missing allergen warnings due to labeling oversight.
• No reported illnesses, but serious allergy risks remain for sensitive consumers.
• Customers advised to return products for a full refund and check packaging codes carefully.

Wanna know more about what happened? Keep on reading! 

What Happened?

On July 14, 2025, Jalux Americas, Inc. (aka J.sweets) recalled two of its popular cookie varieties, L’espoir and Drycapot, after an internal audit revealed a packaging oopsie: some batches contain undeclared milk and tree nuts.

Here’s the lowdown:

Brand	Product	Size	UPC	Best By Date	Issue
L’espoir	L’espoir	5 cookies/bag	4 942737 200147	09/26/2025	Undeclared milk
L’espoir	Drycapot	5 cookies/bag	4 942737 210191	09/26/2025	Undeclared almond and macadamia

Both cookie types were sold exclusively at J.sweets locations between late May and June 30, 2025. No online sales were involved.

What Caused the Issue?

This recall was triggered when Jalux discovered, during a routine inventory audit, that allergens were not properly listed on the packaging. Specifically, L’espoir cookies contain undeclared milk, and Drycapot cookies contain undeclared almond and macadamia nuts.

Though it may seem like a small oversight, the consequences of undeclared allergens can be severe, even fatal.

Why undeclared allergens are dangerous:

• Milk is one of the most common allergens and can cause reactions from hives to anaphylaxis.
• Tree nuts, such as almonds and macadamia nuts, are among the top 8 allergens in the U.S., carrying a high risk of life-threatening reactions.
• Individuals with food allergies rely on accurate labeling to avoid exposure.

Who is at risk?

• Children with known food allergies
• Adults with undiagnosed sensitivities
• Elderly consumers with compromised immune systems
• Anyone managing multiple allergies or autoimmune disorders

Symptoms to watch for:

• Tingling or itching in the mouth
• Swelling of lips, face, tongue, or throat
• Hives or skin rash
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Dizziness or fainting
• Anaphylaxis (life-threatening)

10 Common Questions You Might Have

1. Q: I already ate one. What should I do?
   A: If you don’t have a known allergy, you’re likely fine. If you experience symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
2. Q: How do I know if I have one of the recalled batches?
   A: Check the product code (L4FN or D4FN), barcode, and best before date (09/26/2025) on the gold bag.
3. Q: I have a nut allergy. Is the L’espoir cookie safe?
   A: L’espoir contains undeclared milk, not nuts. But always consult your allergist and avoid it to be safe.
4. Q: Can I get a refund even if I already opened the cookies?
   A: Yes! Return the product to your J.sweets store, even if opened, for a full refund.
5. Q: Were these cookies sold online?
   A: No, they were only sold in physical J.sweets stores in CA, IL, and WA.
6. Q: Can I contact someone with questions?
   A: Yes, call 1-310-524-1078 from 9AM–5PM PST for assistance.
7. Q: Is there a risk if I’m lactose intolerant but not allergic?
   A: While symptoms may not be life-threatening, you could still experience discomfort or GI issues.
8. Q: How often does this kind of recall happen?
   A: Allergen-related recalls are unfortunately common, especially involving mislabeling in co-packed or imported goods.
9. Q: Are macadamia nuts a common allergen?
   A: Yes, while less common than peanuts, macadamia nuts can trigger serious reactions in allergic individuals.
10. Q: Why weren’t allergens listed on the package?
    A: A packaging error during distribution, likely a miscommunication between production and labeling teams.

Here’s What You Should Do

Here’s your recall checklist:

• Look for the product code:
  • L’espoir = L4FN
  • Drycapot = D4FN
• Best Before Date: 09/26/2025
• Barcode Numbers:
  • L’espoir: 4 942737 200147
  • Drycapot: 4 942737 210191
• Next Step: Return it to the J.sweets store where you bought it for a full refund.
• Questions? Call J.sweets at 1-310-524-1078, 9AM–5PM PST.

Behind the Brand

Jalux Americas, Inc., doing business as J.sweets, is known for its upscale Japanese treats. With locations in California, Illinois, and Washington, it offers imported and specialty sweets, including cookies, chocolates, and more.

Unfortunately, this is not the first allergen-related recall in July. Recent similar food recalls include:

• On July 12, 2025, the USDA’s FSIS issued a public health alert for Prep Chef BBQ Pulled Pork and Pulled Pork Burrito Filling, due to undeclared allergens.
• On July 8, Sheehan Brothers Vending voluntarily recalled several ready-to-eat sandwiches after the Ohio Department of Agriculture found they contained sesame, without any mention of it on the label.
• On July 10, 2025, Hartford Bakery, Inc. announced recall of six production lots of its Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style ½ Loaf due to undeclared hazelnuts.
• On June 26, 2025, Shang Hao Jia, Inc. issued a recall of 50 cases of Danshi brand Spicy Shredded Tofu due to undeclared sesame.
• On June 25, 2025, Mellace Family Brands California, Inc. issued a product recall on Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils due to the presence of an undeclared milk allergen.

“This incident serves as a reminder that allergen labeling isn’t just about staying compliant, it’s about protecting real people. When ingredients like milk, almonds, or macadamia nuts aren’t clearly disclosed, consumers with allergies face potentially dangerous consequences, and trust in the supply chain takes a hit,” said Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.

Allergen recalls have been dominating food recalls this week, highlighting the ongoing challenge of labeling compliance in the private label and co-manufacturing space.

Ensuring Safe Eats

This case underscores a critical industry truth: one missed label can create massive risk for consumers, retailers, and suppliers. As food allergies become more common, precise labeling is no longer a luxury, it’s a legal and ethical responsibility.

Food brands, especially those in co-manufacturing, co-packing, or private label, must double down on:

• Ingredient traceability systems
• Recall communication best practices
• Comprehensive label checks before distribution

And as always, if you come across recalled products, don’t taste them. Don’t toss them. Just return them.

Looking to source allergen-safe, bulk ingredients with confidence? Contact our team at Source86 to learn more about how we can help you stay recall-free.