Here’s what you need to know:
- Date: January 10, 2025
- Announced by: FDA on January 10
- Company: Lifestyle Evolution Inc.
- Brand: NuGo
- Product: NuGo Dark Chocolate Chip Nutrition Bar and NuGo Dark Pretzel Chocolate Nutrition Bar
- Product Details: 12- and 18-count multipacks of individually wrapped bars
- Issue: Undeclared milk
Keep reading to find out more!
What happened?
On January 10, 2025, Lifestyle Evolution Inc. recalled select lots of NuGo Dark Chocolate Chip and Dark Chocolate Pretzel nutrition bars because they may contain undeclared milk. The recall was initiated after the firm received 11 consumer reports of allergic reactions experienced after consuming the product. As part of the firm’s ongoing investigation, the product was tested and found to contain milk, which is not indicated on the packaging. The firm’s investigation is ongoing.
What caused the issue?
Undeclared milk in food products is a serious concern, especially for individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. While milk is one of the most common allergens, it is also widely used in many processed foods—sometimes in ways that aren’t always obvious. When milk isn’t properly listed as an ingredient, it can pose significant health risks to those who need to avoid it for medical reasons.
Let’s break down why undeclared milk can be such a problem, who is at risk, and the potential health impacts:
1. What is undeclared milk in a food product?
Undeclared milk refers to situations where a food product contains milk or milk-derived ingredients, but the label doesn’t list it. This can happen due to an error in the packaging or production process, which poses a risk for people who have milk allergies or sensitivities.
2. Why is undeclared milk a problem?
Is dangerous because it can cause severe allergic reactions in individuals with a milk allergy or digestive discomfort for those who are lactose intolerant. For people with milk allergies, it can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction. For those with lactose intolerance, it can cause stomach cramps, bloating, and diarrhea.
3. How can I tell if a product contains undeclared milk?
The best way to identify undeclared milk is by carefully reading the ingredient list on the packaging. Milk should always be listed as an ingredient, and there should be a “Contains” statement highlighting the presence of milk. If you don’t see this and you’re allergic to milk, don’t consume the product. If you’re unsure, contact the manufacturer for clarification.
4. Who is at risk from undeclared milk in food products?
The groups most at risk are people with milk allergies, who could experience life-threatening reactions, and people with lactose intolerance, who may suffer from digestive distress. Children are especially vulnerable, as milk allergies are common in young children, while elderly individuals are more prone to lactose intolerance.
5. What are the symptoms of a milk allergy if I consume undeclared milk?
Symptoms of a milk allergy can include skin rashes, hives, swelling (especially around the face), gastrointestinal problems (vomiting, diarrhea), respiratory issues (coughing, wheezing), and in severe cases, anaphylaxis—a life-threatening condition that causes difficulty breathing and swelling in the throat.
6. Can undeclared milk in food products cause symptoms in people without milk allergies?
Yes, lactose-intolerant individuals who consume products with undeclared milk can experience stomach discomfort, such as bloating, diarrhea, gas, and cramps. While this isn’t life-threatening, it can still be very uncomfortable and disruptive.
7. What should I do if I accidentally consume a product with undeclared milk?
If you have a milk allergy and experience symptoms like swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives, seek immediate medical help. For lactose intolerance, you can usually take over-the-counter lactase supplements to help digest the lactose and alleviate symptoms. Always contact a healthcare professional if you’re concerned.
8. How do I check if a food product is part of a recall for undeclared milk?
You can check product recalls by visiting the FDA website or the manufacturer’s website. They usually list the affected product codes, Best By dates, and lot numbers. If you have a product that matches the recall details, stop consuming it immediately and return it to the store for a refund or exchange.
9. What should I do if I have an allergy to milk but can’t find a product’s ingredient list?
If the product doesn’t list its ingredients, or if you can’t find clear information, it’s best not to consume it. Contact the manufacturer directly to inquire about the ingredients, especially if you’re concerned about milk or other allergens. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
10. Can I still trust a brand that has issued a recall for undeclared milk?
While recalls can be concerning, they are often a sign that the company is acting responsibly to correct the mistake and protect consumers. The key is how quickly and transparently the brand responds to the issue. If the brand handles the recall well, addresses the problem, and improves their quality control measures, they can regain consumer trust. Always check for updates and ensure the company has taken steps to prevent future issues.
Here’s what you should do
Product | Flavor | Manufacturing Code | Best By Date | Item Number Bar | Item Number Box |
NuGo Dark | Chocolate Chip | C24234B, C24235A, C24235B, C24236A | 12/21/2025, 12/22/2025 12/23/2025 | 6 91535 52101 | 6 91535 52102 |
Product | Flavor | Manufacturing Code | Best By Date | Item Number Bar | Item Number Box |
NuGo Dark | Chocolate Pretzel w Sea Salt | B24227B | 12/14/2025 | 6 91535 52901 | 6 91535 52902 |
Product | Flavor | Manufacturing Code | Best By Date | Item Number Bar | Item Number Box |
NuGo Dark Multipack | Chocolate Chip and Chocolate Pretzel w Sea Salt | B24235A, B24235B, B24236B, C24236A | 12/22/2025 12/23/2025 | 6 91535 52901 6 91535 52101 | 6 91535 52004 |
If you have purchased this product, take action! Here’s how:
- Check the label:
- NuGo Dark Chocolate Chip
Item Number Bar: 6 91535 52101
Item Number Box: 6 91535 52102
Best By: 12/21/2025, 12/22/2025, 12/23/2025
Manufacturing Codes: C24234B, C24235A, C24235B, C24236A - NuGo Dark Chocolate Pretzel
Item Number Bar: 6 91535 52901
Item Number Box: 6 91535 52902
Best By: 12/14/2025
Manufacturing Codes: B24227B - NuGo Dark Multipack Chocolate Chip and Chocolate Pretzel w/ Sea Salt
Item Number Bar: 6 91535 52901 | 6 91535 52101
Item Number Box: 6 91535 52004
Best By: 12/22/2025 | 12/23/2025
Manufacturing Codes: B24235A, B24235B, B24236B, C24236A - Identify the product:
- NuGo Dark Chocolate Chip
- NuGo Dark Chocolate Pretzel w/ Salt
- NuGo Dark Multipack Chocolate Chip and Chocolate Pretzel w/ Sea Salt
- What you should do
Consumers who have purchased this product can return it to the place they’ve purchased it. - Contact info:
Those with questions can contact the company at 1-888-421-2032 (Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5p.m. EST) or [email protected].
Behind the brand
NuGo Nutrition from Pennsylvania makes real dark chocolate protein bars for many lifestyles including gluten-free, vegan, non-GMO, organic, diabetes, low-sugar, and Kosher.
Unfortunately, this isn’t NuGo’s first encounter with a recall. On December 3rd, 2024, the New York-based grocery store chain, Wegmans, recalled the Nu Go Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chip Nutrition Bars for undeclared milk allergen.
Ensuring safe eats!
When it comes to food safety, everyone’s gotta be on the same page. Food companies must adhere to strict labeling standards to protect people with allergies. In this case, Lifestyle Evolution has already initiated a recall, and it’s doing the right thing by investigating what went wrong. The more transparent companies are, the safer we all are. So, let’s give a round of applause to the company for taking quick action to pull the product from the shelves and let consumers know what’s up.
“Undeclared allergens, like milk, in food products are a critical reminder of the importance of transparency and accuracy in the entire supply chain. From sourcing raw ingredients to labeling finished products, every step must be held to the highest standards to protect consumer safety. The consequences of even small oversights can be significant, especially for individuals with allergies or intolerances. This issue underscores the need for companies to invest in robust quality control systems and clear communication to ensure that what’s on the label is exactly what’s in the product.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’s CEO.
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