The mislabeling issue, discovered when walnuts were visibly seen on top of the cake, could be life-threatening to individuals with walnut allergies, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The issue arose when the incorrect label failed to note walnuts as an ingredient, despite the cake being topped with visible walnuts. The FDA considers walnuts one of the major allergens, alongside other tree nuts, milk, eggs, and soy, among others.
For individuals with a walnut allergy, even a small trace of the nut can trigger severe allergic reactions, ranging from hives to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition. As of now, no injuries or illnesses have been reported related to this recall.
Scope of the Recall: Affected States and Product Details
The recalled cakes, which weigh 14 ounces, were manufactured on November 5, 2025, and distributed to Publix stores across eight states. These include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The affected cakes were labeled under SKU number 54591 and lot code number 5309. Consumers are urged to return any affected products to their local Publix store for a full refund.
Publix has instructed customers to be cautious, especially those who may have purchased the product after seeing it in the bakery section. The recall was initiated after a sharp-eyed store employee noticed the discrepancy and alerted the company. While no other stores beyond the Publix chain have been identified in connection with the recall, affected shoppers are encouraged to monitor their health and immediately consult a doctor if they experience any allergic reactions after consuming the cake.
Public Health Alert: Voluntary Recall Procedures and Consumer Protection
The FDA’s role in recalls like this one is to ensure that the company takes swift action to protect consumers. According to the FDA, most recalls in the United States are initiated voluntarily by the manufacturer, who is responsible for informing the public and implementing an effective recall strategy. This includes issuing news releases and working closely with retailers to remove affected products from shelves.
Consumers who purchased the recalled cakes can contact The James Skinner LLC directly at 1-800-358-7428 for more information. The company has emphasized its commitment to consumer safety, stating that the issue was a result of a labeling oversight rather than any ingredient-related contamination or misprocessing. Additionally, while the recall has not resulted in injuries, the company and Publix are taking every precaution to ensure the safety of their customers, particularly those with severe nut allergies.
Consumers with walnut allergies are urged to act quickly to avoid potential health risks. The recall is an important reminder of the need for accuracy in food labeling and the ongoing efforts of regulatory bodies like the FDA to protect public health.
