World Market Recalls Emek Pistachio Cacao Cream Over Salmonella Contamination

World Market Recall: Quick summary

• World Market recalls Emek Pistachio Cacao Cream with Kadayif over potential Salmonella contamination
• Product: 9.7 oz glass jar, Batch No: 250401, Best Before: April 1, 2027
• The recall was issued on July 14, 2025, after the FDA detected Salmonella during testing
• Sold across 29 U.S. states in World Market retail stores
• No illnesses reported yet, but high-risk groups are especially vulnerable
• Consumers should return or discard the product and contact customer service for a full refund

Wanna know more about what happened? Read more below!

What Happened?

On July 14, 2025, World Market announced a recall of Emek Spread Pistachio Cacao Cream with Kadayif after an FDA sample test came back positive for Salmonella, a bacteria known for turning snack time into sick time.

The product, an indulgent nutty-chocolate spread infused with kadayif, a traditional shredded pastry, was sold across the U.S. in 29 states. Up to now, the company has not reported any illnesses, but the company isn’t taking chances. They’ve issued a voluntary recall in collaboration with the FDA.

Here’s a quick glance at the recalled product:

Brand	Product	Size	UPC	Best By Date	Batch	Issue
Emek	Pistachio Cacao Cream with Kadayif	9.7 oz	8 69652 10130 1	April 1, 2027	250401	Salmonella contamination

The company distributed affected jars between June 11 and July 9, 2025, and packaged them in clear glass jars with a date code etched on the top of the lid. They were sold primarily in World Market stores across AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WA & WI.

What Caused the Issue?

The company issued this recall after FDA testing detected traces of Salmonella in a sample of the pistachio cacao spread. The presence of this organism poses serious health risks, especially to young children, the elderly, and anyone with a weakened immune system.

Why It’s a Big Deal:

Salmonella is a microscopic menace that, when ingested, can cause an infection known as salmonellosis. While many people recover without treatment, the illness can become severe in vulnerable populations, occasionally leading to hospitalization or more serious complications. For example:

• Arterial infections (infected aneurysms)
• Endocarditis (inflammation of the heart lining)
• Arthritis caused by bacterial infection

Common Symptoms of Salmonella Infection:

• Fever
• Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Headache
• Chills
• Muscle pain
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue

10 Common Questions You Might Have:

1. Q: Is this product still safe to eat if it looks fine?
   A: No. Salmonella contamination isn’t visible or detectable by taste or smell.
2. Q: I already ate some, should I be worried?
   A: If you feel fine, you’re likely okay. However, if symptoms appear within 6–72 hours, seek medical attention.
3. Q: How do I identify if I have the affected jar?
   A: Check the top of the lid for Batch No: 250401, and the Best Before Date: April 1, 2027.
4. Q: What’s the refund process?
   A: Return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
5. Q: Is this the only Emek product affected?
   A: Yes, only the 9.7 oz Emek Spread Pistachio Cacao Cream with Kadayif from this batch.
6. Q: How was the contamination discovered?
   A: The FDA tested product samples and found Salmonella.
7. Q: Have there been any illnesses reported?
   A: No illnesses have been reported as of July 14, 2025.
8. Q: Who is most at risk?
   A: Children under 5, seniors over 65, pregnant individuals, and immunocompromised people.
9. Q: Can I throw it in the trash?
   A: Yes, but seal it in a bag to avoid cross-contamination before disposing.
10. Q: How do I contact the company?
    A: Call World Market’s Customer Service at 877.967.5362 (daily from 7 a.m. – 12 a.m. EST).

Here’s What You Should Do

If you’ve got this jar of spread hiding in your pantry, here’s your next move:

• Don’t eat it. Seriously, don’t test your immune system with a Salmonella challenge.
• Check the lid for Batch No: 250401 and a Best Before Date of April 1, 2027
• Return it to the store for a full refund, or safely discard it
• Questions? Call World Market’s Customer Service at 877.967.5362 (available daily from 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. EST)

Behind the Brand

World Market, known for its globally inspired snacks and specialty foods, is no stranger to importing niche gourmet items. The Emek brand is a Turkish label that adds an artisanal flair to the World Market shelves.

Other Recalls with Similar Causes:

• On July 8, 2025, Natureen International Inc., based in Walnut, CA, issued a product recall for Wei-Chuan Dried Black Fungus Slice (2.5 oz) after the California Department of Public Health discovered the potential presence of Salmonella in routine testing. 
• On June 13, Fuentes Farms LLC issued a voluntary recall of 71 boxes of fresh cucumbers over contamination with Salmonella.
• On June 6, 2025, the FDA published a recall alert from August Egg Company, recalling 1.7 million dozen brown shell eggs due to potential contamination with Salmonella enteritidis. 
• TGD Cuts, LLC, a Jessup, Maryland-based fresh-cut produce supplier, issued a voluntary recall of several cucumber-containing products, citing possible contamination with Salmonella.
• On May 28, 2025, Isabelle’s Kitchen, Inc. recalled 946 cases of its refrigerated deli salads due to possible Salmonella contamination.

“Even a single contaminated batch can lead to a widespread recall. This case highlights how essential it is to have robust traceability, rigorous safety measures, and open communication throughout the supply chain to protect consumers and preserve confidence in the brand,” said Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.

Ensuring Safe Eats

This recall might just be a speed bump for your sweet tooth, but it’s a bigger sign for the industry. Food safety isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. In today’s complex supply chains, a single tainted batch can ripple through multiple states, retailers, and consumers.

To prevent this:

• Brands should tighten traceability systems
• Suppliers must reinforce sanitation protocols
• Importers and co-packers should increase transparency and QA testing

For bulk buyers, this is a powerful reminder: ingredient safety is only as strong as your weakest link. Want to ensure your next batch is safe and sound? Let’s talk! Our team is here to help you source clean, quality ingredients, without the risk of Salmonella.