Lean Cuisine Recalls Over 90,000 Pounds of Baked Chicken Meals Due to Labeling Error
Nestlé Prepared Foods has issued a voluntary recall of more than 90,000 pounds of Lean Cuisine Baked Chicken meals following a mislabeling issue that could pose a serious health risk to consumers with soy allergies. The recall was announced after it was discovered that some packages may erroneously contain Lean Cuisine Fettuccini Alfredo, which includes soy, a known allergen not listed on the Baked Chicken meal packaging.
Details of the Recall
The affected products are 8 5/8-ounce cartons of “Lean Cuisine Baked Chicken,” originally produced on April 22, 2024. These meals bear the establishment number “EST. 1682” and are marked with a best-before date of March 2025. The recall applies to packages distributed across the U.S. and sold through various retail outlets.
The United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) highlighted the labeling mix-up as a potential health hazard for individuals with soy allergies. While no confirmed adverse reactions have been reported, consumers who suffer from soy-related allergic reactions are urged not to consume the affected product.
Industry Implications
Labeling errors, particularly those involving allergens, pose significant challenges for FMCG brands, leading to costly recalls and potential reputational damage. With growing consumer awareness around food ingredients and allergens, transparency in labeling has become a critical industry focus. This recall underscores the necessity for stringent quality control measures, particularly in large-scale food production and packaging operations.
Retailers and distributors carrying the affected Lean Cuisine products have been instructed to remove them from shelves. Consumers who have purchased the recalled meals can return them for a full refund or dispose of them. Nestlé has set up a consumer hotline for any inquiries related to the recall.
Ensuring Product Safety
Allergen mislabeling remains a significant concern in the frozen and packaged food sector. As regulatory scrutiny increases, brands must implement improved verification processes to prevent mislabeling incidents. For FMCG professionals, this recall highlights the importance of rigorous supply chain management, accurate product labeling, and effective crisis handling to maintain consumer trust.
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