Here’s what you need to know:
- Date: January 17, 2025
- Announced by: FDA on January 17
- Company: Monkey Spit, LLC
- Brand: Monkey Spit
- Product: Monkey Spit BBQ Sauce: Monkey Mop BBQ Sauce, Swamp Mob BBQ Sauce, Atomic Mop BBQ Sauce
- Issue: Undeclared milk, soy, and wheat
- Product details: 12-ounce glass bottles
Keep reading to find out more!
What happened?
On January 17, Monkey Spit, LLC issued a recall for its 12-ounce glass bottle of: Monkey Mop BBQ Sauce – because it may contain undeclared milk; Swamp Mob BBQ Sauce – because it may contain undeclared soy; and, Atomic Mop BBQ Sauce – because it may contain undeclared milk and wheat. The three recalled “Monkey Spit BBQ Sauces” were distributed locally in retail stores on the central coast of California and through mail orders on their website: www.monkeyspithotsauce.com. The recall was initiated after an FDA inspection, where it was discovered that there were undeclared allergens that weren’t revealed on the product labels. Further investigation indicated the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company’s packaging processes.
Company | Brand | Product | Size | Best by dates | Issue |
Monkey Spit, LLC | Monkey Spit | Monkey Mop BBQ Sauce | 12-ounce glass bottles | 11/07/2026A | Undeclared Milk |
Monkey Spit, LLC | Monkey Spit | Swamp Mob BBQ Sauce | 12-ounce glass bottles | 12/13/2025A | Undeclared Soy |
Monkey Spit, LLC | Monkey Spit | Atomic Mop BBQ Sauce | 12-ounce glass bottles | 03/19/2026D | Undeclared Milk and Wheat |
What caused the issue?
When it comes to food allergies, milk, soy, and wheat are three of the most common culprits that can trigger serious reactions in susceptible individuals. Here’s a breakdown of these allergens and who’s at risk:
1. Milk
- What it is: Milk allergy is an immune system response to proteins found in cow’s milk, such as casein and whey. It is one of the most common food allergies in infants and young children, though some people may outgrow it over time.
- At-risk groups: While children are typically more prone to milk allergies, adults can also develop sensitivities. People with a family history of allergies or asthma are more likely to develop a milk allergy.
- Symptoms: Symptoms can include hives, swelling, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis (a life-threatening reaction that impairs breathing and can cause a drop in blood pressure).
2. Soy
- What it is: Soybeans are legumes, and soy allergies occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies proteins in soy as harmful. It’s one of the top eight allergens in the U.S.
- At-risk groups: Soy allergies are more common in children, but it can affect people of all ages. People who have allergies to other legumes (like peanuts or lentils) may also be at risk for a soy allergy.
- Symptoms: Reactions to soy can range from mild (hives, swelling, stomach pain) to severe (trouble breathing, anaphylaxis).
3. Wheat
- What it is: Wheat contains a variety of proteins, including gluten, that can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. A wheat allergy is different from celiac disease, which is an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten.
- At-risk groups: Wheat allergies are common in young children, but many outgrow the allergy by adulthood. However, it can persist into adulthood in some people. Individuals with a history of eczema or asthma may be more prone to developing a wheat allergy.
- Symptoms: Symptoms can include skin rashes, digestive issues (like nausea or diarrhea), and respiratory problems. Severe reactions may involve anaphylaxis.
Groups at Risk
The primary groups at risk for severe allergic reactions from undeclared milk, soy, and wheat are:
- Children: Especially with a history of allergies or asthma.
- Adults with existing food allergies or sensitivities.
- People with multiple food allergies: For example, those who are allergic to both soy and peanuts may be more sensitive to other legumes like soy.
- People with eczema or asthma: These individuals often have a higher likelihood of developing food allergies.
The severity of the reactions varies by person and can include anything from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions like anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.
Let’s break this down:
1. How do I know if I have an allergy to milk, soy, or wheat?
If you experience symptoms like hives, swelling, stomach cramps, or difficulty breathing after consuming products with these ingredients, you should consult a doctor or allergist for testing.
2. How dangerous are milk, soy, and wheat allergies?
They can be very dangerous. Severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, can occur, which is a medical emergency that may require an epinephrine injection and immediate hospitalization.
3. What should I do if I have one of these allergies and consume a product from the recall?
If you’ve consumed the affected product and are experiencing symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. If you’re not experiencing symptoms, contact your doctor for advice, and return the product for a refund.
4. What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction to milk, soy, or wheat?
Symptoms include hives, rash, swelling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, trouble breathing, or dizziness. In extreme cases, anaphylaxis can occur, which requires immediate medical intervention.
5. Can I develop an allergy to milk, soy, or wheat as an adult?
Yes, food allergies can develop at any age, even in adulthood. If you experience symptoms after consuming a product with these ingredients, seek medical attention and have an allergy test done.
6. I’m not allergic, so is this recall a big deal for me?
If you’re not allergic to milk, soy, or wheat, the recall doesn’t pose a risk to you. However, if you plan on sharing the product with someone who has allergies, it’s best to be cautious and return the product for a refund.
7. How do I check if I have the recalled BBQ sauce?
Look for the specific product names and best-by dates listed in the recall notice. Check the label on your bottle for “Monkey Mop BBQ Sauce,” “Swamp Mob BBQ Sauce,” or “Atomic Mop BBQ Sauce” and verify the best-by date.
8. What should I do if I find a recalled product in my pantry?
Stop using the product immediately and return it to the store where you purchased it for a full refund. You can also contact the company directly for assistance.
9. Will this recall affect my ability to buy BBQ sauce in the future?
Not necessarily. While this is a recall for this particular brand, there are many other safe BBQ sauces available. Always check labels for allergens if you’re concerned about future purchases.
10. How can I prevent accidental allergic reactions in the future?
Always read food labels carefully, especially if you or someone in your household has known allergies. If you’re uncertain about a product, avoid it, or contact the manufacturer for more information.
Here’s what you should do
If you have purchased these products, take action! Here’s how:
- Check the label:
Monkey Mop BBQ Sauce Best by: 11/07/2026A
Swamp Mob BBQ Sauce Best by: 12/13/2025A
Atomic Mop BBQ Sauce Best by: 03/19/2026D - What you should do:
Consumers who have purchased 12-ounce bottles of “Monkey Spit Mop BBQ Sauce, Monkey Spit Swamp BBQ Sauce and Monkey Spit Atomic Mop BBQ Sauce”, should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. - Contact info:
Those with questions may contact the company at 1-714-514-8445 Monday through Friday 9am to 5 pm (PST) or [email protected].
Behind the brand
This is a handmade specialty food company, based in California. They make hot sauce, barbecue sauce, dry rubs, and jelly. Even though these kinds of issues are unusual in the industry, mistakes can happen. New York Mutual Trading Co., Inc. issued a recall for its 7.05 oz Prepared Monkfish Liver on January 15, 2025, after discovering undeclared milk in the product. And, on January 14, The Quaker Oats Company issued a recall for their Pearl Milling Company Original Pancake & Waffle Mix 32 oz (2 lb) box, formerly Aunt Jemima, for possible undeclared milk.
Ensuring safe eats!
This recall serves as a reminder of how important proper labeling is in the food industry. Allergens are no joke, and mislabeling can have serious consequences for consumers. Companies must remain vigilant in their packaging processes to avoid mistakes that could impact public health.
The recall also highlights the importance of taking quick action. By stopping production and issuing the recall as soon as they found the issue, Monkey Spit is doing the right thing to ensure consumer safety.
“At the heart of every successful food product is trust, and that trust is built on transparency and quality control. This recall is a stark reminder that even the smallest oversight in ingredient labeling can have significant consequences for consumer safety. In today’s food industry, it’s not just about the ingredients we source, but about the processes and diligence required to ensure every product reaches the consumer as it should—safe, accurate, and reliable. As a supply chain, we all share responsibility in upholding those standards.” Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.
