- Date Issued: June 25, 2025
- Announced by: FDA on June 30, 2025
- Company: Mellace Family Brands California, Inc.
- Brand/Product: Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils
- Issue: Undeclared milk allergen
- Product Details: 18.5 oz tubs, six affected lot codes
- Action: Return product for full refund; contact Wegmans customer service
- Why it matters: Allergens like milk can pose life-threatening risks to consumers
Shall we learn more about this recall?
What Happened?
Mellace Family Brands California, Inc. has issued a product recall on Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils due to the presence of an undeclared milk allergen.
The recall was announced on June 30, 2025, following the company’s discovery that the packaging failed to disclose milk as an ingredient. Fortunately, the company has not reported cases of illnesses to date. However, the risk remains serious for those with milk allergies. The recall was traced back to a temporary failure in the supplier’s manufacturing and labeling system, which led to the allergen being left off the ingredient list.
This product was distributed in Wegmans stores across Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington D.C.
Recall Details Table
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Best By Dates | Issue |
Wegmans | Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils | 18.5 oz (524g) | 0 77890 49787 6 | DEC 28, 2025 – APR 12, 2026 | Undeclared milk allergen |
Affected Lot Codes:
- 55021 – Best By: Dec 28, 2025
- 55031 – Best By: Dec 29, 2025
- 55491 – Best By: Feb 13, 2026
- 55501 – Best By: Feb 14, 2026
- 56061 – Best By: Apr 11, 2026
- 56071 – Best By: Apr 12, 2026
What Caused the Issue?
This recall resulted from a labeling failure during production. The packaging for Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils did not include milk in the listed ingredients, even though milk was present in the product. This oversight was caused by a temporary breakdown in the supplier’s manufacturing and quality assurance process.
Why is this dangerous?
Milk is one of the eight major allergens recognized by the FDA. Even trace amounts can cause severe reactions in individuals with a milk allergy. For some, consuming a product that contains undeclared milk could result in symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Who’s at risk?
- Children with known dairy allergies
- Adults with milk sensitivities
- Individuals with a history of anaphylaxis due to dairy
- Consumers with lactose intolerance (may experience gastrointestinal symptoms)
Common Symptoms Include:
- Hives or rash
- Swelling of lips, tongue, or throat
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Anaphylactic shock in severe cases
10 Common Questions You May Have
1. Is this product dangerous for people without a milk allergy?
No, but customers should still return it due to mislabeling and safety concerns for others.
2. I already ate the product and have no allergy—am I safe?
Yes, if you don’t have a milk allergy, there is no health risk.
3. Where can I find the lot code?
It’s printed on the left side of the plastic tub.
4. What should I do if I have the recalled product?
Do not consume it. Return it to Wegmans for a full refund.
5. Is this a permanent recall?
No, it’s limited to the listed lot codes and dates.
6. Has anyone gotten sick from this recall?
No, the company has not reported cases of illnesses as of now.
7. Can I get a replacement instead of a refund?
Wegmans is currently offering refunds; replacements may vary by location.
8. How do I contact customer service?
Call Wegmans at 1-855-934-3663 between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM EST.
9. Does this affect all Wegmans chocolates?
No, only the Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils in the specified lot codes.
10. Could other allergens be involved?
At this time, only undeclared milk has been identified.
Here’s What You Should Do
If you purchased this product, here’s what to do:
- Look for the lot code on the left side of the container.
- If your product matches any of the affected lot codes, do not consume it.
- Return the product to your local Wegmans store for a full refund.
- For questions, call Wegmans Customer Service at 1-855-934-3663 (8:00 AM – 8:00 PM EST).
Behind the Brand
Mellace Family Brands California, Inc., based in Warren, Ohio, manufactures a wide variety of snacks and private-label treats. While not frequently associated with food safety concerns, this incident under the Wegmans name has drawn industry attention to allergen labeling practices.
This recall comes shortly after similar incidents involving:
- 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, Kilwins Quality Confections issued a recall of its Mocha Truffles due to undeclared pecans.
- On June 20, 2025, Lipari Foods issued a voluntary recall of its JLM Branded Dark Chocolate Nonpareils due to undeclared milk.
- On June 20, 2025, Sabores Fit Bakery, doing business as Sabores A Tu Mesa, issued a voluntary recall after discovering that several of their mousse dessert flavors contained undeclared major allergens—a serious misstep in food safety compliance.
- On June 20, 2025, International Foodsource, LLC recalled their SE Grocers-branded Dark Chocolate Nonpareils due to undeclared milk.
- On July 25, 2025, Tropicale Foods voluntarily recalled select Helados Mexico and La Michoacana frozen treats due to undeclared milk.
“Getting allergen labels right isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about protecting lives. When a major allergen like milk is left off the packaging, it puts vulnerable consumers at risk and weakens trust across the entire supply chain.” said Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.
For a complete and updated list, visit the FDA Recalls Page.
Ensuring Safe Eats
Allergen mislabeling is one of the most common and preventable causes of food recalls. In an industry that relies heavily on co-manufacturing and private labeling, consistent oversight and accurate documentation are critical.
Allergen labeling isn’t just a formality. It’s a fundamental layer of protection, and it’s more than a health hazard—it shakes consumer confidence.
To avoid similar issues, manufacturers should:
- Perform routine label audits
- Conduct comprehensive allergen testing
- Improve traceability systems across suppliers
Want to learn how to protect your brand and customers with cleaner supply chains and better quality control? Contact our team today and explore our full range of trusted ingredients. Reach out to Source86 today!
