Attention Allergy Sufferers: Mislabeled Mushroom Product Poses Risk, Urgent Health Alert, US

The government has issued a public health alert over a potentially mislabeled frozen mushroom product sold in nearly a dozen states that could be dangerous for people with allergies. The product in question is labeled as Wild Fork Porcini Mushroom Risotto Bites, but inside the box, consumers may actually find hot dogs in puff pastry, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). The packaging fails to declare sesame, a known allergy and ingredient in the puff pastry bites. The cardboard boxes, weighing 7.5 ounces, were shipped to retailers in California, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin. While the government has not issued an official recall since the product is no longer being sold, they have chosen to issue a warning to consumers as the item could still be in many people’s freezers. The FSIS advises individuals who have these products in their possession to check for specific lot codes, best by dates, and EST numbers on the packaging, and either dispose of them or return them to the store of purchase. As of Friday, there have been no reported adverse reactions to the product. Sesame was recently designated as the ninth major food allergen in the United States, and new FDA regulations regarding labeling and manufacturing requirements went into effect on January 1, 2023. In case of further inquiries, consumers are encouraged to contact Jessica Levitzki, the director of food safety & compliance at Fillo Factory, the manufacturer of the product.