In a significant alert that impacts consumers across multiple states, the US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has announced the recall of over 8,000 boxes of frozen meat pizzas from the shelves of Walmart. The recall was initiated due to misbranding and the non-disclosure of soy—an allergen that can cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals—on the product labels.
The pizzas, produced by the Vermont-based 802 VT Frozen, have been a popular choice among frozen pizza enthusiasts. However, this batch has raised alarms due to the presence of soy, which was not declared on the packaging, posing a serious health risk.
The Dangers of Soy Allergies
Soy allergies are particularly concerning as they can affect a significant portion of the population, including one in 13 children under the age of three, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. The ingestion of soy can trigger a range of symptoms from difficulty breathing and weak pulse to stomach cramps and severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis—a potentially life-threatening condition.
No Adverse Reactions Reported Yet
Despite the serious nature of the recall, the USDA has confirmed that there have been no reported adverse reactions from consumption of the pizzas to date. The products in question include a tantalizing mix of Italian-style sweet sausage, pepperoni, and meatballs, topped with a rich blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese.
RECALL ALERT: More than 8,000 pounds of frozen pizza sold in Mass. and across New England recalled over soy concern https://t.co/AaQZ6CG18P
— Boston 25 News (@boston25) April 29, 2024
Recall Specifics and Consumer Guidance
The recall specifically affects pizza boxes marked with a “best if used by” date range from April 25, 2024, to April 25, 2025. These boxes also carry the establishment number “EST. 46308” within the USDA mark of inspection.
For consumers who have purchased these pizzas, the USDA advises returning the product to the place of purchase for a refund or simply discarding it to avoid any health risks. The recalled products were distributed across several states including New York, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont, predominantly through Walmart stores.
Wider Impact on Food Safety
This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of accurate labeling and food safety practices. The FSIS continues to monitor the situation closely and conducts routine verification activities to prevent such occurrences. In the meantime, consumers are urged to check their freezers for the affected products and follow the guidance provided by health officials.
As this situation develops, further updates can be expected. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed and adhere to the recommendations from food safety agencies to ensure their well-being and that of their families.
