In a recent announcement that has raised eyebrows across the food industry, Feel Good Foods, a renowned provider of gluten-free meals, has initiated a voluntary recall of their popular Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Bagels. This decision follows reports of potential gluten cross-contamination, posing a significant health risk to consumers with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Mini Bagels: Unexpected Gluten in Gluten-Free Products
The recall specifically targets the Plain and Everything flavored Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Bagels. These products, previously celebrated for their gluten-free integrity, are now under scrutiny after a consumer reported an adverse reaction, prompting immediate action from the company.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been actively cooperating with Feel Good Foods to manage the recall process efficiently. As detailed on the FDA’s official website, these products
“may contain undeclared gluten”
due to cross-contamination, a serious issue for those with severe allergies or sensitivities.
Details of the Recalled Products
Consumers are urged to check their freezers for the Cream Cheese Stuffed Plain Mini Bagels and Cream Cheese Stuffed Everything Mini Bagels. The affected products bear the UPCs 89903900283 and 89903900286, respectively, with best-by dates ranging from May 29, 2024, to September 17, 2025. Located primarily in the frozen section across various U.S. retailers, these products should be immediately disposed of if found.
Company Response to the Crisis
Vanessa Phillips, the founder of Feel Good Foods and a celiac sufferer herself, expressed her deep concern over the incident with Mini Bagels.
“Ensuring the integrity and safety of our gluten-free products is of the utmost importance,”
Phillips stated.
Mini bagel recall over serious allergic reaction fears https://t.co/dy35gQ3WsY pic.twitter.com/DGMG7cnazy
— Newsweek (@Newsweek) April 13, 2024
“We took swift action to voluntarily recall the impacted product Mini Bagels as soon as we were aware of the trace amounts of gluten cross-contamination.”
Phillips further emphasized the company’s commitment to consumer safety and the rigorous testing procedures that typically safeguard their products. Feel Good Foods has encouraged those affected to contact their Customer Care Center for additional support and information regarding refunds or product disposal.
Broader Impact on the Food Industry
This incident serves as a critical reminder of the complexities involved in manufacturing gluten-free products like Mini Bagels and the severe implications of allergen cross-contamination. It also highlights the importance of rigorous quality control measures and transparent communication channels between food providers and their consumers.
In response to the recall, the FDA advises all consumers who possess the recalled bagels to cease consumption immediately and return them to their point of purchase for a full refund. For those seeking more detailed information or assistance, Feel Good Foods’ customer service remains available to address consumer concerns and provide support during this recall.
Additional Recalls to Note
In a related development, the FDA also announced recalls for other food products due to undeclared allergens, including King Kullen Broccoli Cutlets and various ice cream and gelato products by Belgian Yummies. These recalls underscore the ongoing challenges food manufacturers face in allergen management and the need for continuous vigilance in food labeling and production processes.
This string of recalls is a potent reminder of the critical nature of accurate labeling and the vigilance required to ensure the safety of all consumers, particularly those with specific dietary restrictions.
