A nationwide public health alert has been issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) regarding frozen empanadas distributed to Walmart stores across the country. The concern arises from potential mislabelling, where Chicken Curry Empanadas may contain Apple Cinnamon Empanadas, which have milk as an ingredient. This poses a risk to individuals with milk allergies. Although no adverse reactions have been reported, the FSIS advises caution and encourages those with concerns to consult healthcare providers.
Mislabelled Frozen Empanadas Raise Allergy Concerns
In a noteworthy development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has raised a red flag over Bettergoods’ supposedly Chicken Curry Empanadas. These products, available in Walmart stores, might actually contain Apple Cinnamon Empanadas, which include milk as an ingredient. Given this discrepancy, FSIS is warning consumers with milk allergies to avoid consuming these potentially mislabelled items.
The issue came to light when the distributor received four complaints about Apple Cinnamon Empanadas being found in boxes labelled as Chicken Curry Empanadas. The affected products were manufactured on November 14, 2024, and packaged between November 20-21, 2024. They are sold in yellow cardboard boxes marked “Bettergoods Traditionally Crafted Chicken Curry Empanadas” with best-by dates of May 21 or 22, 2026. Additionally, the side of the box bears the inscription “EST. P33967.”
Despite the potential hazard, FSIS did not initiate a recall since the product is no longer available in stores. However, they emphasize that anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical advice immediately.
Meanwhile, it's important to note that another food safety issue involving broccoli sold at Walmart due to listeria bacteria concerns has also surfaced. This separate incident affects washed and ready-to-eat 12-ounce bags of Marketside Broccoli Florets from Braga Fresh with a best-by date of December 10, 2024, impacting 20 states.
From a reader’s perspective, this alert underscores the critical importance of accurate food labelling and consumer vigilance. It highlights how even minor discrepancies can pose significant health risks, especially to those with specific dietary restrictions. Consumers are advised to carefully check product labels and stay informed about any ongoing alerts or recalls to safeguard their well-being.