Chocolate candy bars recalled nationwide over allergy risk

TOPEKA (KSNT) - A Pennsylvania-based company is recalling a chocolate candy product distributed nationally this week as it could cause harmful allergic reactions for some people.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Dec. 27 that Gardners Candies is recalling its 1.25-ounce packages of "Gardners Candies brand Cappuccino Meltaway® Bars" as they may have undeclared cashews. People who are allergic to these nuts may be at risk of serious or even life-threatening allergic reactions if they come into contact with the recalled candy.

The FDA said the products were distributed to stores nationally and sold online through the Gardners Candies website starting on Sept. 1. The recalled bars come in white plastic packages marked with lot # 082725 stamped on the side along with the expiration date of Aug. 27, 2025.

Gardners Candies sold the recalled products in some treat boxes which contained two of the cappuccino meltaway bars apiece. This is the "Gardners Meltaway Treat Box" marked with lot # 101625 or 112525.

Health officials found the bars were distributed inside packaging which did not declare the presence of cashews. Investigators found the issue was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging process.

The FDA said no illnesses have been reported yet in connection to the recalled candy bars. Gardners Candies has also stopped producing the product until it has corrected the issue which prompted the recall.

People who purchased any of the 1.25-ounce packages of the bars or the treat boxes are encouraged to contact Gardners Candies for a replacement. You can reach out to the company by calling 1-800-242-2639 Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST.

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