WinCo Foods has recalled thousands of deli-style Margherita pizzas sold in 10 states after it was discovered that the product may contain metal fragments. The recall, which affects pizzas distributed in states ranging from California to Texas, has prompted a warning from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding potential health risks associated with the affected products. This issue may lead to temporary or reversible health effects if the pizzas are consumed.
The recall affects specific 17-ounce Margherita pizzas sold in plastic film packaging, with a five-day sell-by date. This voluntary action by WinCo Foods follows concerns over safety after the presence of metal fragments was detected. Although the probability of severe harm is low, the recall has been classified as a Class II event due to the risk of injury from swallowing even small pieces of metal. Such metal fragments can cause direct physical harm, including cuts to the mouth, throat, or internal injuries if ingested.
The Scope of the Recall and Affected States
WinCo Foods, based in Boise, Idaho, initiated the recall after the metal contamination was discovered. The affected pizzas are labelled with Julian codes 12255, 22265, and 12415, with the sell-by dates spanning January 15 to February 2026. The recalled pizzas were sold in refrigerated sections of grocery stores across 10 states: Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington. The recall was officially announced by the FDA on February 2, 2026, following the completion of the firm’s initiated action.
In total, more than 5,000 cases of pizza are involved, though WinCo has stressed that the likelihood of serious health effects from consuming the product is very low. The FDA, in its assessment of the recall, classified the incident as Class II, indicating that exposure to the product may cause temporary health issues, but not likely long-term damage. As part of the recall process, the agency monitors the progress to ensure the removal of potentially hazardous products from the market.
The Dangers of Metal Contamination in Food Products
The discovery of metal fragments in food products is a serious safety concern, as even small pieces of metal can cause significant harm when consumed. According to FDA guidelines, metal fragments between 0.3 and 1 inch are particularly dangerous, as they can lead to mouth cuts, throat damage, or injuries within the digestive tract. In rare cases, sharp metal pieces can cause more serious internal damage. The FDA’s enforcement of metal-detection limits for food products helps to ensure that any contamination is caught before it reaches consumers.
Although the recall itself is relatively minor in terms of health risks, the potential for injury underscores the importance of food safety regulations and vigilant monitoring by manufacturers. The FDA continues to evaluate the situation and has recommended that anyone who has purchased the recalled pizzas either dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
Consumers who have purchased the affected pizzas are advised to check the packaging for the Julian codes. If they have a product that falls within the recall range, they should immediately stop consuming it and return it to the store for a full refund. WinCo Foods has taken full responsibility for the situation and has assured the public that it is working to prevent any further incidents of contamination.
