Jose Madrid Salsa Recalls Chipotle Con Queso Salsa

Announcement Date: December 20, 2024
Announced by: FDA and Jose Madrid Salsa
Product: Chipotle Con Queso Salsa
Issue: Undeclared Yellow 5 and Yellow 6
Health Risks: Allergic reactions, including life-threatening ones, for sensitive individuals
Actions to Take: Stop consuming the product immediately, check lot codes, and contact the company for more details.

Stick around to learn more about this recall—from what caused the issue to how you can ensure your pantry is safe!

What happened?

Jose Madrid Salsa issued a voluntary recall of its Chipotle Con Queso Salsa on December 20, 2024. The recall was triggered after an inspection by the Ohio Department of Agriculture, acting on behalf of the FDA, identified undeclared Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 in the ingredient list. This labeling oversight could pose serious health risks for individuals with allergies to these additives.

Brand	Product	Size	UPC	Lot Codes	Distribution	Issue
Jose Madrid	Chipotle Con Queso Salsa	13 0z	0936624529	6012201102327	Events in NY and NC	Undeclared Yellow 5/5
				6012201103027
				6012201111227

Distribution locations

Hamburg, NY: Christmas in the Country event (November 7-10, 2024)
Syracuse, NY: Holiday Shoppes event (November 8-10, 2024)
Greensboro, NC: Holiday Market event (November 15-17, 2024)

What caused the issue?

The undeclared Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 were the result of a temporary breakdown in production and packaging processes at the company’s facility. Yellow 5 (tartrazine) and Yellow 6 (sunset yellow) are synthetic food colorants widely used in processed foods, beverages, and even medications. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory agencies, they can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

What are Yellow 5 and Yellow 6?

Yellow 5 (Tartrazine): A lemon-yellow synthetic dye used in candies, soft drinks, and snacks. Some studies suggest it may cause hyperactivity in children or trigger allergic reactions, including rashes and respiratory issues.
Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow): A reddish-orange dye commonly found in desserts, cereals, and cosmetics. It has been linked to similar allergy-like symptoms and may exacerbate conditions like asthma.

Health risks

Symptoms: Skin irritation, hives, difficulty breathing, anaphylaxis
At-Risk Groups: Individuals allergic to food dyes, particularly Yellow 5 and Yellow 6

What are Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 made from?
- Both are petroleum-based synthetic dyes.
Are Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 banned anywhere?
- They are restricted or require warning labels in some countries, such as the EU.
What foods typically contain these dyes?
- Candies, soft drinks, baked goods, and packaged snacks.
How do I know if I’m allergic to these dyes?
- Symptoms may include rashes, swelling, or breathing difficulties after consumption.
Are natural alternatives available?
- Yes, options like turmeric or beta-carotene are used as natural colorants.
Can children be more sensitive to these dyes?
- Studies suggest potential links to hyperactivity in children.
Why are these dyes still used if they pose risks?
- They are cost-effective and enhance visual appeal.
Are there long-term health effects?
- Research is ongoing, but chronic exposure at high levels may pose risks.
Can these dyes interact with medications?
- Rarely, but they can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
How can I avoid these dyes?
- Read labels carefully and choose products labeled as dye-free or natural.

Here’s what you should do

If you have purchased Jose Madrid Salsa’s Chipotle Con Queso Salsa, follow these steps:

Check the Label: Look for the UPC 093662452935 and lot codes 6012201 102327, 103027, or 111227.
Stop Consumption: Do not eat the product if you are allergic or sensitive to Yellow 5 or Yellow 6.
Contact the Company: For refunds or more information, call 740-521-4304 or email [email protected] (Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm).

Behind the brand

Jose Madrid Salsa is celebrated for its flavorful, handcrafted salsas made with high-quality ingredients that bring bold, authentic flavors to the table. Based in Ohio, the company has earned a loyal following for its diverse product range, from traditional tomato-based recipes to creative blends like the Chipotle Con Queso Salsa. However, food recalls are not uncommon in the industry. Recently, Shoppers-Plaza, a Los Angeles-based retailer, issued a voluntary nationwide recall for its Fouzee SugarLin Herbal Formula capsules due to undeclared active pharmaceutical ingredients—Metformin and Glyburide, both commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes. Similarly, GNMART INC recalled its Force Forever joint pain supplement because it contained undeclared Diclofenac and Dexamethasone. These cases highlight food and supplement manufacturers’ ongoing challenges in ensuring accurate labeling and product safety.

“Food safety recalls highlight the critical need for vigilance at every stage of the supply chain. From sourcing to packaging, strict adherence to safety protocols is essential to safeguard public health and uphold consumer trust. These incidents serve as important reminders of the value of transparency, responsibility, and proactive efforts in maintaining the integrity of our food systems.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’ CEO.

Ensuring safe eats

This recall underscores the critical importance of rigorous quality control in food manufacturing. Labeling errors not only risk consumer health but also tarnish brand trust. Companies must invest in robust processes to prevent mishaps and ensure product label transparency.

As a consumer, always: