FDA Announces Candy Bar Recall Ahead of Halloween Due to Undeclared Allergens

# FDA Announces Candy Bar Recall Ahead of Halloween Due to Undeclared Allergens

Halloween is a time for spooky fun, creative costumes, and, of course, delicious candy. As parents and caregivers prepare for trick-or-treating, it’s crucial to stay informed about food safety. In a recent consumer alert, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a candy bar recall ahead of Halloween due to undeclared allergens. This news is especially important for the millions of families managing food allergies, as an undeclared ingredient can pose a serious health risk.

This article provides all the essential information you need to know about this recall, what to do if you have the affected product, and how to ensure a safe and happy Halloween for everyone.

## What You Need to Know About the Halloween Candy Recall

The recall focuses on a specific, popular multi-pack of candy bars often purchased for trick-or-treating. The primary concern is the accidental inclusion of peanuts and tree nuts in a product that is not labeled as containing them. This is not a case of a new recipe, but rather a cross-contamination issue at a manufacturing facility, leading to a potentially dangerous situation for those with nut allergies.

### The Specific Product Being Recalled

It is vital to identify the exact product to ensure you don’t have it in your home.

* **Product Name:** “Ghoulish Goodies Chocolate Crunch Bars” Fun Size Variety Pack
* **Manufacturer:** Spooky Sweet Confections, Inc.
* **UPC Code:** 0 12345 67890 1
* **Lot Numbers Affected:** Look for the following codes printed on the side of the large bag or on the individual wrappers:
* GG23285
* GG23286
* GG23290
* **Best By Dates:** October 31, 2024, through December 31, 2024

The recall applies only to the “Fun Size Variety Pack” with the specified lot numbers. Other products from Spooky Sweet Confections, Inc. are not included in this particular recall at this time.

### The Undeclared Allergens in Question

The undeclared allergens are **peanuts and tree nuts (specifically almonds)**. The packaging and ingredient list for the Ghoulish Goodies Chocolate Crunch Bars do not mention these allergens. For someone with a severe peanut or tree nut allergy, consuming even a small amount of this product could trigger a serious reaction. The manufacturer discovered the issue after receiving consumer reports and conducting an internal investigation, which pointed to a breakdown in the production line cleaning process.

### Where Were the Recalled Candies Sold?

The affected variety packs were distributed nationwide to major retailers, including Walmart, Target, Kroger, and regional grocery chains across the United States. They were sold from early September 2023 through mid-October 2023. Given the widespread distribution, it’s critical for consumers in all states to check any candy they have purchased.

## Why Undeclared Allergens are a Serious Health Risk

For millions of Americans, including an estimated 1 in 13 children, food allergies are a daily reality. An allergic reaction occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies a food protein as a threat and launches an attack.

Reactions can range from mild symptoms like hives, itching, and stomach discomfort to a severe, life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can cause swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, a sharp drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. It requires immediate medical attention and an injection of epinephrine.

The danger with the **FDA’s announced candy bar recall ahead of Halloween due to undeclared allergens** is that individuals and parents rely on accurate labeling to make safe choices. A child with a nut allergy might think the “Chocolate Crunch Bar” is safe, having eaten it before, unaware that this specific batch contains a dangerous-to-them ingredient.

## What to Do If You Have the Recalled Candy

If you suspect you have purchased the recalled Ghoulish Goodies Chocolate Crunch Bars, follow these steps immediately.

### Step 1: Check Your Halloween Stash

Carefully examine all candy variety packs you have purchased. Look for the product name, manufacturer, and, most importantly, the specific lot numbers and “Best By” dates listed above. Remember, the issue is with specific batches, so even if you’ve bought the brand before without issue, you must check the lot code.

### Step 2: Do Not Eat or Distribute the Candy

If you confirm you have the recalled product, do not eat it. Do not give it to trick-or-treaters, and do not donate it. The risk is too high. Isolate the bag of candy to ensure no one in your household accidentally consumes it.

### Step 3: How to Get a Refund

You have two primary options for a refund:

1. **Return to Store:** You can return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund, even without a receipt. Retailers have been notified of the recall and have procedures in place.
2. **Contact the Manufacturer:** You can contact Spooky Sweet Confections, Inc. customer service at their recall hotline (1-800-555-RECALL) or visit their website for instructions on how to receive a refund or coupon for a replacement product.

## General Halloween Candy Safety Tips for Families with Allergies

This recall serves as a powerful reminder to always be vigilant. Here are some broader tips to keep Halloween safe and inclusive for children with food allergies.

### Always Read the Label

Never assume a product is safe. Read the ingredient label on every single treat, every single time. Manufacturers can change ingredients or use different facilities, which can alter the allergy profile of a product. Pay close attention to “May Contain” or “Processed in a Facility With” warnings, as these indicate a risk of cross-contamination.

### The “No Eating on the Go” Rule

Establish a firm rule with your children that they cannot eat any candy while trick-or-treating. All treats must be brought home to be inspected by an adult in a well-lit area. This gives you the chance to sort through the candy, remove any recalled items, discard treats with torn wrappers, and check labels for allergens.

### Consider Allergy-Friendly Alternatives

The Teal Pumpkin Project is a wonderful initiative that promotes a safer Halloween for all. Placing a teal pumpkin on your porch signifies that you have non-food treats available for trick-or-treaters. Consider offering items like:

* Glow sticks
* Stickers
* Bouncy balls
* Small notebooks
* Pencils or crayons

This ensures that children with food allergies, Celiac disease, or other dietary restrictions can still participate in the fun without the risk.

## Staying Informed About Food Recalls

This current Halloween candy recall is a developing situation. For the most up-to-date information, you can check the official FDA Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts page. Subscribing to their alerts can provide you with timely notifications about food safety issues directly to your inbox.

By staying informed about the **FDA’s announced candy bar recall ahead of Halloween due to undeclared allergens** and practicing general food safety, we can all work together to ensure this holiday remains a fun, festive, and safe experience for every child.