Costco Recalls Butter: Missing Milk Allergy Label - What You Need to Know
Editor's Note: Costco has issued a voluntary recall of a specific butter product due to a missing milk allergy label. This is a serious issue for individuals with milk allergies, as consuming this product could trigger a severe allergic reaction.
Why This Matters
This recall highlights the importance of carefully reading food labels, especially for individuals with allergies. Even seemingly simple products like butter can contain hidden allergens, and missing labels can lead to dangerous health consequences. The recall also underscores the vigilance of food manufacturers in ensuring accurate and complete labeling.
Key Takeaways of Costco Butter Recall
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Recalled | Kirkland Signature Salted Butter |
| Reason for Recall | Missing milk allergen label |
| Potential Risk | Severe allergic reaction for individuals with milk allergy |
| Affected Units | 16-ounce tubs with UPC code 00011113097748 |
| Action Needed | Consumers with milk allergies should not consume the recalled butter. Return it to Costco for a full refund. |
Costco Recalls Butter
The recall was initiated by Costco Wholesale Corporation after discovering that some tubs of Kirkland Signature Salted Butter were distributed without a milk allergy label. This omission poses a serious health risk to individuals with milk allergies, who may unknowingly consume the product and experience a severe allergic reaction.
Milk Allergy
Milk allergy is a common food allergy that occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies milk proteins as harmful. The body then releases chemicals that trigger a range of symptoms, from mild skin reactions to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
The Importance of Food Labeling
Food labeling plays a crucial role in protecting consumers with allergies. Accurate and complete labels allow individuals to make informed decisions about the food they consume, ensuring their safety. This recall underscores the need for food manufacturers to maintain stringent labeling practices and for consumers to carefully read labels before consuming any food product.
Key Aspects of the Costco Butter Recall
Product Identification: The recalled product is Kirkland Signature Salted Butter, packaged in 16-ounce tubs with UPC code 00011113097748.
Allergen Information: The recalled butter does not contain a milk allergy label, which is a serious oversight as butter is a milk product and can trigger severe allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies.
Consumer Action: Consumers with milk allergies are advised to discard the recalled butter or return it to Costco for a full refund. They should also be vigilant when purchasing other food products and ensure that labels clearly state any allergens present.
FAQ
Q: What should I do if I have the recalled butter? A: If you have milk allergies, do not consume the recalled butter. Return it to Costco for a full refund.
Q: How do I know if I have the recalled butter? A: Check the UPC code on the butter tub. The recalled butter has the UPC code 00011113097748.
Q: What are the symptoms of a milk allergy? **A: ** Symptoms can range from mild, such as hives or itching, to severe, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, or anaphylaxis.
Q: What is anaphylaxis? **A: ** Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause the throat to close up, the blood pressure to drop, and the heart to slow down. It requires immediate medical attention.
Tips for Managing Milk Allergies
- Read food labels carefully: Always check labels for milk and other allergens before consuming any food product.
- Talk to your doctor: If you have a milk allergy, talk to your doctor about how to manage it safely.
- Carry an epinephrine auto-injector: If you have a severe milk allergy, your doctor may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an EpiPen, to use in case of an allergic reaction.
- Be aware of cross-contamination: Milk can cross-contaminate other food items, so be careful when preparing food.
Summary by Costco Recalls Butter
This recall highlights the importance of careful food labeling and the potential risks associated with missing allergen information. It also serves as a reminder for individuals with milk allergies to always be vigilant when purchasing and consuming food products. By reading labels carefully and taking appropriate precautions, individuals with milk allergies can protect themselves from potentially life-threatening allergic reactions.
Closing Message: This recall serves as a strong reminder about the importance of food safety and the potential risks associated with missing allergen information. It is vital to stay informed and be proactive about managing allergies. Always read labels carefully, and if you have any concerns about a food product, contact the manufacturer or your healthcare provider for guidance.
