Product recalls are not uncommon, but they can still create significant concern, especially when it involves food allergies and safety. This was the case with atwater’s spider web tarts recall, a delightfully designed dessert that quickly became the subject of a safety alert. atwater’s spider web tarts recall issued a recall for specific batches of its Spider Web Tarts after discovering a labeling error that posed a severe risk to consumers with tree nut allergies.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the recall, unpacking the reasons behind it, the risks it presented, and what you, as a consumer, should do to protect yourself and your loved ones. Whether you’ve purchased the product or are simply curious about how food safety processes work, this guide covers every angle with clear, actionable information.
What Happened? An Overview of the Recall
The recall was officially announced on October 28, 2024, affecting atwater’s spider web tarts recall, a well-known bakery based in Maryland. Sold on October 19 and 20, 2024, at various farmers’ markets in Maryland (MD), Virginia (VA), and Washington, DC, the tarts were found to contain undeclared almond flour. Since almonds are a tree nut and one of the top allergens, the recall was initiated to prevent potentially life-threatening allergic reactions.
Key Details About the Recall
- Recall Date: October 28, 2024
- Affected Product: atwater’s spider web tarts recall
- Problem: Undeclared almond flour, which is hazardous for individuals with tree nut allergies
- Distribution Points: Farmers’ markets in MD, VA, and DC, including notable locations such as Dupont Circle, Arlington Courthouse, and Silver Spring
- Packaging Details: The tarts were sold in clear clamshell packaging with a green label marked “Spider Web Tart” and a Julian date of 292 on the bottom.
The oversight was discovered during a routine production check, which revealed a breakdown in the labeling system. Fortunately, no illnesses have been reported as of this writing.
Why Was the Recall Issued?
The recall’s primary cause was a mislabeling error that occurred during atwater’s spider web tarts recall production and packaging process. Essentially, almond flour, which is a key component in the tarts, was not disclosed on the packaging. This posed a serious issue for consumers with tree nut allergies, who could unknowingly consume the tarts and experience adverse reactions.
Tree Nut Allergy Dangers
Tree nut allergies are one of the most common and potentially dangerous food allergies. Reactions can range from mild symptoms such as hives or swelling to life-threatening conditions like anaphylaxis.
Undeclared allergens are a critical food safety concern, as they remove the ability for consumers to make informed decisions about their purchases. This is why labeling errors are taken so seriously within the food industry.
How the Problem Was Detected
The labeling issue became apparent during routine quality checks at atwater’s spider web tarts recall production facility. Investigations revealed a temporary breakdown in the production line’s processes, which allowed almond flour to mistakenly go unmentioned on the product labels. This incident underscores the importance of strict labeling protocols in the food industry.
Regulatory Response
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was promptly informed, and the recall was classified as a precautionary measure to address the potential allergy risks. atwater’s spider web tarts recall also issued a public notice to alert consumers and provided channels for refunds or returns.
Affected Products and Distribution
The recall is specific to Spider Web Tarts sold on October 19 and 20, 2024, and only involves products distributed at farmers’ markets. The affected farmers’ markets include:
- Arlington Courthouse, VA
- Dupont Circle, DC
- Falls Church, VA
- Silver Spring, MD
- Mount Pleasant, DC
- Greenbelt, MD
- H Street, DC
- Westover, VA
Packaging Details
The tarts were sold in clear clamshell plastic packaging, with a:
- Green “Spider Web Tart” label on the top
- Julian date of 292 printed on the bottom
Consumers are urged to check their purchases for these identifying markers and avoid consuming the product if it matches the description.
Who Is at Risk?
Consumers with tree nut allergies are at the highest risk from this labeling oversight. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
- Skin irritations such as hives, rashes, or swelling
- Gastrointestinal distress such as nausea or vomiting
- Respiratory difficulty or wheezing
- Severe reactions like anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening and require immediate medical intervention
If you or someone in your household has a tree nut allergy, it’s critical to avoid this product.
What Should You Do If You Have the Product?
If you’ve purchased these Spider Web Tarts, follow these steps:
- Stop consumption immediately.
- Check the label for the green packaging and Julian date 292.
- Return the product to atwater’s spider web tarts recall for a full refund. You can contact atwater’s spider web tarts recall by phone at 410-644-3435 (Mon-Fri, 8 AM to 5 PM EST) or via email at info@atwatersfood.com.
Customers who have consumed the product and experience adverse reactions should contact their healthcare provider right away.
Ensuring Food Safety Moving Forward
This incident serves as a strong reminder of how crucial food safety and proper labeling are in protecting consumers. For atwater’s spider web tarts recall, the recall highlights the challenges even established and reputable brands face when handling allergens.