A recall was placed on some lots of Simply Lite brand 50 percent Cacao Low Carb Sugar Free Dark Chocolate because they contained undisclosed milk protein, putting those with allergies at risk.
"The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns consumers that it has tested and found milk protein in [three]-ounce bars of Simply Lite brand 50 [percent] Cacao Low Carb Sugar Free Dark Chocolate bearing the lot codes 'Best By: 01 18 2015A' or 'Best By: 01 19 2015A.' Milk is a major food allergen, but it is not declared as an ingredient on the label," an FDA news release stated.
People who have severe dairy allergies could have a dangerous and even fatal reaction to consuming the chocolate bars.
Simply Natural Foods of Commack, N.Y. agreed to participate in a recall of the contaminated products after the FDA found 3,500 parts per million of milk protein (equivalent to four tablespoons of whole milk) in single candy bars.
The chocolate bars are labeled "may contain traces of milk," but this amount is considered to be higher than what could be called "traces."
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to milk protein include "hives; flushed skin or rash; tingling or itchy sensation in the mouth; face, tongue, or lip swelling; vomiting; diarrhea; abdominal cramps; coughing or wheezing; dizziness or lightheadedness; swelling of the throat and vocal cords; difficulty breathing; and a drop in blood pressure." A reaction can also lead to anaphylaxis which is life threatening.
The product has a brown packaging and was distributed in "Calif., Fla., Ga., Ind., Nev., Mass., N.C., N.J., N.Y., Pa., Va., Wash., and Canada," the news release reported.
Consumers who have had an allergic reaction after consuming the product should contact the FDA at 1-888-SAFEFOOD Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time or Simply Natural Foods at 631-543-9600.
