Mauna Loa is voluntarily recalling their chocolate-covered macadamia nuts due to the possible presence of undeclared cashew nuts and almonds.
Newsweek has reached out to Mauna Loa via email for comment.
Why It Matters
Tree nuts are one of nine major allergens identified by the FDA. Others include milk, egg, wheat, fish, shellfish, sesame, peanuts and soy.
Millions of people in the United States have food allergies or food sensitivities, and undeclared allergens are the most common reason for food recalls, according to the FDA.
What To Know
The Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company said that it discovered a possible presence of almonds and cashews during an internal quality control process.
The details for the recalled products are as follows:
Product name: Mauna Loa Dark Chocolate Covered Macadamias
Product Quantities: 0.6oz and 4oz bags
UPC: 0 72992 05464 4 and 0 72992 05556 6
Lot Numbers: B4339E1 and B4340E1
Best by dates: 10/2026 and 07/2026
The recalled products were distributed to a number of retailers in the following sixteen states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
No illnesses have been reported in connection with the product as of reporting. Consumers who have purchased the product and have an almond and/or cashew allergy are encouraged to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Individuals with cashew or almond allergies could risk a serious or life-threatening reaction if they consume these products.
Allergic reactions can lead to a variety of symptoms with varying degrees of severity. Symptoms can be hives, rashes, swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping and coughing or wheezing and, in severe cases of an allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, an individual can experience swelling of the throat, a drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness.
What People Are Saying
Dr. Marc Goldstein, board-certified allergist and immunologist and founding partner at The Asthma Center in Philadelphia, told Newsweek: “Regarding food allergies, it’s very important to know your allergies and then be aware of the ingredients in the foods that you eat. This means reading food labels and asking questions about ingredients and food preparations from places where you consume food (e.g. bakery, restaurants, ice cream shop).
“Imagine this scenario for someone who has a peanut butter allergy – they order vanilla ice cream from an ice cream shop but the person prior ordered a peanut butter flavor and the same scope was used – that is a risk that could trigger a reaction. So it’s critical to understand the food and food preparation for the things you eat.”
Mauna Loa, in a press release shared by the FDA: “We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and remain committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality in our products.”
What’s Next
Customers with questions or concerns about the recall can contact Mauna Loa customer service at 1-888-255-5998, Monday through Friday.
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