Costco Butter Recalled: Missing Allergen Warning Puts Consumers at Risk
Costco Wholesale Corporation has issued a voluntary recall of its Kirkland Signature Salted Butter due to a missing allergen warning label. The butter, sold in 1-pound packages, is labeled as "Salted Butter," but fails to disclose that it contains milk, a major allergen for many individuals. This oversight poses a serious health risk to individuals with dairy allergies who may unknowingly consume the product.
What Products Are Affected?
The recall applies to Kirkland Signature Salted Butter with the following UPC code:
- 00093785001608.
The butter was distributed to Costco locations nationwide and has a best-by date of December 1, 2023.
Why is This Recall Important?
Allergic reactions to dairy can be severe and even life-threatening. The absence of an allergen warning on the butter label puts consumers with dairy allergies at risk of experiencing symptoms like:
- Hives
- Swelling
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen. This is why it's crucial for consumers to be aware of the potential dangers of consuming products without proper allergen labeling.
What Should Consumers Do?
Consumers with dairy allergies who have purchased the recalled Kirkland Signature Salted Butter should not consume it. Instead, they should:
- Discard the product immediately.
- Contact Costco customer service for a full refund.
- Seek medical attention if they experience any allergic reaction.
Costco is committed to the safety of its customers and deeply regrets this error. The company is taking all necessary steps to ensure that future products are labeled correctly and accurately.
What is Costco Doing?
Costco has taken immediate action to address this recall, including:
- Notifying all affected consumers through its website and social media channels.
- Issuing a recall notice to all stores nationwide.
- Working with its suppliers to ensure that all future products are labeled correctly.
The company is dedicated to preventing future incidents and ensuring the safety of its customers.
What Can Consumers Learn from This Recall?
This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of carefully reading food labels and being aware of potential allergens. Even familiar brands can sometimes make mistakes, and it's crucial to prioritize your health by being informed about ingredients and potential risks.
If you have any questions or concerns about the Kirkland Signature Salted Butter recall, please contact Costco customer service or your healthcare provider.