Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recalled Nationwide Due to Undeclared Allergens

If you have a peanut allergy, you might want to check your hot chocolate stash. New Jersey-based brand Corim Industries is recalling several of its peanut butter hot chocolate products due to undeclared allergens. According to the FDA, the products, which are sold under several different brand names, are being recalled because they may contain undeclared peanuts. The legume can cause a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction among people who have peanut allergies, which is why the FDA is encouraging consumers who are allergic to peanuts to dispose of the recalled items immediately, or return them to their place of purchase.

The following products are subject to recall:

• Cocoa de Aroma, 24 ct k-cups assorted (12.7 oz carton containing Peanut Butter flavor 0.52 oz k-cups)
• Smart Sips, 24 ct k-cups (12.7 oz carton)
• Jersey Charm, 24 ct k-cups (12.7 oz carton)
• Colonial Coffee, 12 ct k-cups (4.44 oz carton)
  

For each of the above products, the recall includes all lots with “Best By” dates between January 11, 2023 and January 11, 2025. Those “Best By” dates can be found on the bottom of each carton.

Per the FDA, the recalled products were distributed to a limited number of resellers nationwide between January 11, 2021 and November 30, 2022. However, the agency also notes that no illnesses or deaths have been reported to date in connection with this issue.

The recall was apparently initiated after it was discovered that a replacement flavoring ingredient from a different supplier may have trace levels of peanut that was not declared on bulk label or finished product label to downstream partners. 

However, testing conducted by Corim indicated that the peanut levels may be below the limit of detection. A subsequent investigation identified the root cause as a temporary breakdown in the company's supplier documentation process, which has since been corrected. Additionally, the company has instituted extra safety checks and corrective actions, including discontinuing the use of this particular flavoring ingredient.

Consumers with questions regarding this recall may contact the company at 732-840-1670.