Kroger Recalls Chocolate Chips for Allergy Concerns

Imagine my shock, worry and sadness at learning my 12-ounce bag of Kroger Value semi-sweet chocolate chips had been recalled.

I learned of the recall via a recorded phone call to my home Monday morning, several hours after enjoying a batch of my breakfast favorite, chocolate-chip pancakes.

The product’s manufacturer, Barry Callebaut USA LLC, issued a voluntary recall of the product on Jan. 12. Because the chocolate chips may contain undeclared milk protein, people with allergies or severe sensitivity to milk protein who consume the product may be at risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction, according to a company press release.

Products with the UPC Code 11110–86603, or the “best by” dates of Nov. 20, 2012, Dec. 1, 2012, Dec. 3, 2012 and Dec. 4, 2012 are affected by this recall.

The “best by” date can be found printed in black on the end of the back of the bag.

Barry Callebaut USA LLC determined the recall was necessary following a consumer complaint suggesting the product may contain undeclared milk protein. Because the ingredient label of the product’s package does not say it may contain milk protein, the product was recalled.

Consumers, like your editor, who have purchased the product may return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

For addition questions, contact Barry Callebaut USA LLC at (866) 678-5231.

In addition to the bags sold in Michigan, the Kroger Value Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips subject to this recall were sold in Kroger stores in Georgia; South Carolina; Alabama; Knoxville, TN; Greater Cincinnati, including northern Kentucky, Dayton, OH and southeastern Indiana; central and northwest Ohio; northern West Virginia panhandle; Indiana, except southwest Indiana, including Evansville; Illinois; eastern Missouri; Greater Louisville, including Indiana; Lexington; Nashville, TN; Greater Memphis, TN; Arkansas; Mississippi; western Kentucky; North Carolina; Virginia; eastern West Virginia; eastern Kentucky; southeast Ohio; Texas and Louisiana.

Other stores selling the affected product include: Baker's, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Food 4 Less Midwest, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Gerbes, Jay C, King Soopers, Ralphs & Smith's.