If you have picked up a bag of chocolate almonds recently from Meijer, it might be time to double-check your pantry. A popular snack item is now under an elevated recall warning — and if you or someone in your home has a nut allergy, this is something you really need to know.
Why are chocolate almonds being recalled?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised the recall of Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds to a Class II level. That means the risk is more serious than before.
Here is what happened:
- Some packages labeled as dark chocolate almonds may actually contain dark chocolate cashews.
- Cashews are not listed on the ingredient label, which could be extremely dangerous for people with cashew allergies.
- Consuming the product could cause allergic reactions, ranging from mild to potentially life-threatening.
The FDA describes a Class II recall as a situation where using the product “may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences,” or where the risk of serious consequences is low — but still present.
Which chocolate almond products are affected by the recall?
So far, two types of packaging have been listed in the recall:
- Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds in black stand-up pouches
- Sell-by dates: 05/07/2026 or 05/28/2026
- Sell-by dates: 05/07/2026 or 05/28/2026
- Frederik’s Dark Chocolate Almonds multi-pack boxes (8-count of 1.5 oz packs)
- Sell-by date: 05/05/2026
- Sell-by date: 05/05/2026
These products were sold exclusively at Meijer grocery stores in the following states:
- Michigan
- Indiana
- Illinois
- Ohio
- Kentucky
- Wisconsin
If you shop at Meijer and bought chocolate almonds recently, you should check the packaging right away.
What to do if you have the recalled product
If you discover that you have a recalled bag or box, do not eat it. Even if no one in your home has a nut allergy, it is still best to return the product to be safe.
Here is what you should do:
- Take the product back to any Meijer store
- You will receive a full refund
- No receipt is required
At this time, no illnesses have been reported, but the company and the FDA are urging people to take the recall seriously.
How often are food recalls happening?
This recall is part of a larger trend. In just the past year, there have been hundreds of food recalls across the United States. A recent report from the Public Interest Research Group showed that in 2024:
- Over 300 food recalls were issued
- Nearly 1,400 people became sick
- 487 were hospitalized, and 19 people died due to foodborne illness
That is nearly double the number of hospitalizations and deaths compared to 2023.
What to keep in mind if you have food allergies
If you or your loved ones live with food allergies, these types of recalls highlight how important it is to:
- Always read ingredient labels carefully
- Stay informed about recent recalls through FDA alerts
- Avoid consuming any products if the label or packaging looks different or unclear.
Even trusted products can sometimes slip through the cracks, so it is better to be cautious — especially when allergies are involved.