Consumers are being warned of potentially life-threatening allergic reactions due to undeclared ingredients in several types of Russian delicacies that were recalled by M&P Food Production Ltd. The FDA issued a notice informing consumers of the possible presence of wheat, milk, and sesame in the products. The recalled items were sold in retail stores in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Florida from August 27, 2023, until August 27, 2024. People with allergies or sensitivities to wheat, milk, or sesame are at risk of experiencing serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume these products.
The items that were recalled included several varieties of pirozhki, vareniki, and Russian-style blintzes. The blintzes were filled with either sweet cheese or cherry filling and were sold in 14-ounce packages with specific UPC numbers. The pirozhki, which are sweet or savory filled buns, also had specific varieties in 40-piece boxes but none of the products included UPC numbers. The varenikis, or boiled dumplings, were sold in 14-ounce packages with specific UPC numbers as well. All recalled items had best-before dates ranging from August 27, 2024, to August 27, 2025.
Consumers who purchased any of the recalled products were urged to return them to the point of purchase for a full refund. The company provided a phone number for customers with additional questions to contact them during specific hours on weekdays. The recall was initiated after an FDA inspection revealed the presence of wheat, milk, and sesame, despite the ingredients not being labeled. The company stated that no related illnesses had been reported at the time of the recall.
While most consumers may not experience serious health concerns from consuming these ingredients, people with food allergies could be at risk of developing anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal condition that requires immediate medical attention. Anaphylaxis symptoms include throat swelling, difficulty breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. Other symptoms of serious allergic reactions may include rashes, hives, itching, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping. Wheat, milk, and sesame are all considered major food allergens by the FDA.
In addition to allergy concerns, wheat can pose a serious medical risk to individuals with celiac disease, an autoimmune condition that causes hypersensitivity to gluten found in wheat and certain other grains. Undeclared milk could also trigger unpleasant symptoms in people with lactose intolerance, a condition that affects the ability to digest dairy products. The FDA lists several major food allergens, including eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, and soybeans, alongside wheat, milk, and sesame. It is essential for consumers with food allergies or sensitivities to carefully check food labels to avoid potential risks and reactions.
