United Sugar Producers Recall 1.7 Million Pounds Over Wheat Contamination
A Minnesota sugar supplier has recalled more than 1.7 million pounds of brown and powdered sugar sold in eight states after potential wheat kernel contamination. The FDA assigned the recall a Class II risk level on September 21.
A Minnesota-based sugar supplier has recalled more than 1.7 million pounds of brown and powdered sugar distributed across eight states because the products may contain wheat kernels, an undeclared allergen that can trigger serious reactions in people with a wheat allergy.
United Sugar Producers and Refiners initiated the recall in August, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration assigned it a Class II risk level on September 21. That classification means use of or exposure to the affected product may cause temporary or medically reversible health consequences, with a remote chance of more serious harm.
The recalled sugar reached Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. The products range from two-pound consumer bags to 50-pound bulk packages, and two of the items are sold under Target's Good & Gather store brand, according to the FDA report.
Wheat is one of nine major food allergens recognized by the FDA. For people with a wheat allergy, exposure can cause reactions that range from hives and digestive distress to more severe symptoms. The recall notice does not specify which retailers or businesses received the bulk packages, though the consumer-sized bags are tied to the Good & Gather label.
The FDA report lists several specific products and batch numbers. United Light Brown Sugar in 50-pound bags carries item number 810051 and batch numbers MHD26223 through MHD26229. Good & Gather Light Brown Sugar in two-pound bags carries item number 817773 and UPC 0 85239-08454 0, with the same batch range. United 6X Powdered Sugar in 50-pound bags carries item number 810087 and UPC 7 85921-07090 4. Crystal Sugar Powdered Sugar in 25-pound bags carries item number 810097 and UPC 0 70090-08090 9, with batch number MHD26230. Good & Gather Powdered Sugar in two-pound bags carries item number 817774 and UPC 0 85239-08455 7.
United Sugar Producers & Refiners supplies industrial and retail customers nationwide and says it currently provides about one-quarter of total U.S. sugar demand, according to its website. The recall quantity listed in the FDA report, 12,678 CWT and 4,265 CWT, likely refers to hundredweight and converts to nearly 1.7 million pounds of sugar.
Consumers who have purchased the affected products should check the item numbers, UPC codes, and batch numbers printed on the packaging. Anyone with a wheat allergy should avoid using the recalled sugar and may return it to the place of purchase or dispose of it. The FDA notice does not indicate whether any allergic reactions have been reported in connection with the recall.
The recall adds to a series of recent food safety actions that have prompted federal risk classifications, including recalls involving blood pressure medication and tea products. For now, the sugar recall remains focused on the eight states where the affected batches were distributed, and shoppers in those areas are being urged to verify their pantry items before baking or cooking.
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