The US food and drug administration (FDA) has escalated a nationwide recall of 64,800 pounds of bunge north america’s nh european style butter blend from class III to class II after tests revealed the product failed to declare milk, a major allergen. The move affects 1,800 cases of butter distributed across 12 US centers and one in the Dominican Republic.
The recall, which began voluntarily on 14 July, was officially reclassified on 30 July, according to the FDA. This change underscores the greater potential risk for individuals with milk allergies, who could face medically significant reactions if they consume the product.
Why the Class II Classification Raises Concern
The FDA ranks product recalls on a three-tier scale. A class ii recall is defined as “a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote,” according to the FDA. Previously, this butter recall was classified as class III, meaning adverse health outcomes were unlikely.
While the probability of life-threatening outcomes remains low, undeclared milk can still trigger allergic reactions in vulnerable individuals. The Mayo Clinic reports that milk allergy symptoms may include wheezing, vomiting, hives and digestive problems, and in rare cases can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal reaction.
Identifying the Recalled Butter and Consumer Guidance
The recalled product consists of one-pound blocks, packaged 36 to a case, and shipped in plain white paperboard cartons. Consumers are urged to check for the following details: lot 5064036503, UPC 1 00 78684 73961 2, and product code 5023937. According to the FDA, anyone in possession of butter matching these identifiers should immediately stop using it, as heat does not neutralize milk proteins.
The agency further advises consumers to either dispose of the product or return it to the point of purchase for a refund. Those who suspect an allergic reaction should seek prompt medical assistance. According to the FDA, “the law requires that food labels identify the food source of all major food allergens,” a regulation that aims to protect individuals with food allergies and hypersensitivities.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate labelling in safeguarding public health. By upgrading the recall, the FDA has reinforced its commitment to consumer safety while placing a sharper focus on the risks of undeclared allergens in widely distributed food products.
