NORTH ARLINGTON, N.J. — A Halloween candy sold across multiple states is being recalled after the manufacturer discovered that its packaging failed to disclose a milk-derived ingredient that could pose a serious risk to people with milk allergies.
Crystal Temptations of North Arlington, New Jersey, is recalling its Chocolatey Eyeballs after discovering that the candy contains whey, an ingredient derived from milk.
The problem was not with the presence of whey itself, but with the product label. Because the milk-derived ingredient was not properly declared, consumers with a milk allergy may not realize that the candy contains an ingredient they need to avoid.
The company launched an investigation after identifying the labeling problem and determined that it resulted from a temporary breakdown in its production and packaging process.
Candy Sold at Major Retail Stores in 13 States
The recalled Chocolatey Eyeballs were sold under the Crystal Temptations brand and distributed through several major retail chains.
Stores named in the recall include Marshalls, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods and Sierra.
The products were distributed across 13 states, including Arizona, California, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Virginia and Wyoming.
That broad distribution means shoppers in multiple parts of the country may have purchased the candy for Halloween celebrations, parties or seasonal treats.
Consumers who still have the product at home are being urged to check their candy before eating it, particularly if anyone in the household has a milk allergy.
Several Chocolatey Eyeball Packages Included
The recall covers multiple versions and package sizes of Crystal Temptations Chocolatey Eyeballs.
The affected products include a 10-ounce plastic bag with a designed header card, as well as a 7-ounce acrylic box with a designed paper wrap.
Also included is a 10.5-ounce round plastic jar and a 16-ounce designer plastic pouch bag. Another recalled package is an 11-ounce plastic bag tied with a tag.
Because the recalled candy was packaged in several different formats, shoppers should not assume a package is safe simply because it looks different from another recalled version.
Consumers should carefully compare the product they purchased with the recall information before eating it.
Milk Allergy Risk Prompts Recall
The primary concern is the undeclared whey, which comes from milk.
For people with a milk allergy, consuming a product containing an undeclared milk ingredient can potentially lead to an allergic reaction. The risk is particularly concerning because the ingredient was not identified on the product label.
At this time, however, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled candy. The company is asking customers who purchased the affected products to dispose of them rather than consume them.
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The recall serves as another reminder for consumers with food allergies to carefully check product labels, especially when buying seasonal candy that may have different packaging or limited-time designs.
Customers Can Contact Company for Refund
Anyone who purchased the recalled Crystal Temptations Chocolatey Eyeballs can contact the company regarding a refund.
Crystal Temptations has provided the phone number 201-246-7990 for customers seeking more information or requesting their money back.
Consumers who have the recalled candy should avoid eating it, particularly if they or someone in their household has a known milk allergy.
Although there have been no reported illnesses, the labeling issue means shoppers should take the recall seriously and check any Crystal Temptations Chocolatey Eyeballs purchased from the affected retailers.
With Halloween approaching, consumers may already have seasonal candy stored at home or prepared for parties. Checking the packaging now could help prevent an unexpected allergy exposure.
Do you have any of the recalled Halloween candy at home? Check your pantry and let us know in the comments if you found one of the affected packages.