- Date Issued: May 1, 2025
- Announced by: FDA on May 5, 2025
- Company: East CK Trading, Inc.
- Product: President Brand Licorice Plum (8 oz bottle)
- Issue: Undeclared sulfites and unapproved food dye (Amaranth E123)
- Product Details: 8 oz clear plastic bottle, UPC 0077-20729
- Action: Return product for refund; call 1-718-857-0008 for questions
- Quick Heads-Up: This recall poses a serious allergy risk for sulfite-sensitive individuals
Shall we learn more about this? Let’s dig in.
What happened?
East CK Trading, Inc., based in Long Island City, NY, has voluntarily recalled its 8-ounce President Brand “Licorice Plum” due to the presence of undeclared sulfites and the inclusion of Amaranth (E123) — a food dye not approved for use in the U.S.
The issue was flagged during routine testing by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, which uncovered the allergen and colorant during a surprise snack check. Talk about plum unfortunate!
Here’s a breakdown of the details:
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Best By Date | Issue |
President Brand | Licorice Plum | 8 oz | 0077-20729 | Not Listed | Undeclared sulfites, unapproved Amaranth dye |
- Discovery Date: May 1, 2025
- Revealed by: NYS Food Inspectors + Lab Analysis
- Distribution: Nationwide – retail stores and mail order
What caused the issue?
This recall was sparked by undeclared sulfites and the use of Amaranth (E123) — a color additive banned in the U.S. Let’s break down what went wrong, why it’s dangerous, and who’s most at risk.
Undeclared sulfites: Why that’s a big deal
Sulfites are often used in dried fruits, wines, and some packaged foods as preservatives. But for some people — particularly asthmatics or those with a sulfite allergy — even 10 mg per serving can trigger serious reactions. In this case, lab tests found 29.1 mg per serving, nearly three times the risk threshold.
Potential symptoms include:
- Wheezing or trouble breathing
- Hives or itchy skin
- Swelling of lips, face, or throat
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Anaphylactic shock in extreme cases
Children, elderly individuals, and people with underlying respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable.
Amaranth (E123): A colorful concern
Amaranth is a synthetic red dye banned by the FDA since the 1970s. While still allowed in some countries, U.S. food regulators banned it due to potential links to hyperactivity in children and concerns from early animal studies suggesting possible carcinogenic effects.
Amaranth can cause:
- Skin irritation
- Allergic reactions
- Behavioral issues in sensitive children
It’s also completely unauthorized for food use in the U.S., making its appearance in any retail product a clear violation of food safety laws.
10 common questions you might have
1. What are sulfites, and why are they added to food?
Sulfites are chemical preservatives used to prevent browning and spoilage, often found in dried fruits, wine, and processed snacks.
2. Why is Amaranth (E123) banned in the U.S.?
The FDA banned Amaranth in 1976 due to concerns about cancer risks in animal studies and potential allergic reactions.
3. What happens if I accidentally ate the recalled Licorice Plum?
If you’re not allergic or sensitive, likely nothing will happen. If you are, monitor for symptoms and seek medical help if needed.
4. Who is at most risk from sulfites?
People with asthma, sulfite sensitivity, or respiratory conditions are at highest risk of adverse reactions.
5. What are signs of an allergic reaction to sulfites?
Watch for breathing difficulty, hives, swelling, and digestive issues. Severe cases may involve anaphylaxis.
6. Can children eat this product safely?
No — due to both undeclared sulfites and banned dye, it is not safe for children or anyone with sensitivities.
7. How can I check if I have this product?
Look for an 8 oz plastic bottle of “President Brand Licorice Plum” with UPC 0077-20729.
8. Can I return the product if I bought it?
Yes, return it to your place of purchase for a full refund.
9. Has anyone gotten sick from this product?
No illnesses have been reported so far — but the product still poses a risk.
10. How can I report a food safety concern?
You can call 1-718-857-0008 to speak with the company directly or contact the FDA’s consumer complaint coordinator in your area.
Here’s what you should do
If you’ve got this snack in your pantry, here’s your action plan:
- Check the label: Look for 8 oz bottles with UPC 0077-20729
- Don’t eat it: Seriously, not worth the allergic drama
- Return it: Head back to your retailer for a full refund
- Call for info: Reach out to Jeff Boehner at 1-718-857-0008
Behind the brand
East CK Trading, Inc. specializes in importing and distributing traditional snacks and treats — often offering unique products with international appeal. While this is the first major recall tied to the President Brand in recent years, undeclared allergens continue to be a top reason for food recalls in 2025.
- On March 30, 2025, Fresh Creative Foods issued a voluntary recall for Trader Joe’s Hot Honey Mustard Dressing due to a labeling error that left out crucial allergen information.
- On March 25, 2025, the Bakery Group, based in Dallas, TX, issued a recall for two of its bakery products due to undeclared allergens.
“Protecting consumers starts with clear, honest labeling. When allergens like sulfites go undeclared, it puts vulnerable people at risk and damages confidence in food brands. This recall highlights just how critical accurate labeling and strong quality control are for both public safety and maintaining trust in the industry.” — Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86
Ensuring safe eats
Food safety slip-ups like this can have real consequences, especially when it comes to allergen labeling. For importers, co-packers, and private label brands, the takeaway is clear: accurate labeling and rigorous QA testing aren’t optional — they’re essential.
This recall serves as a reminder that even the sweetest products can sour without compliance.
Quick Recap:
- Double-check your pantry
- Avoid consumption
- Return the product for a refund
- Contact East CK Trading with questions
Want to ensure your food offerings meet the highest safety standards? Talk to our team — we specialize in sourcing bulk ingredients with transparency and compliance baked in. For more insights, feel free to contact us or explore our range of ingredients!
