Wakefern Food Corp. has recalled select jars of Wholesome Pantry Organic Unsweetened Apple Sauce after routine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) testing detected elevated levels of patulin, a toxin produced by molds that can grow on damaged or bruised apples. The recalled applesauce comes in 23-ounce plastic jars bearing UPC 04119005677 and a best-by date of June 16, 2027. Wakefern said the product should not be consumed because the detected patulin level exceeded food-safety limits.
No illnesses or injuries had been reported when the FDA published the company announcement on September 22. "Customers who purchased the recalled product can return it to the store for an immediate refund or replacement," said Maureen Gillespie, spokesperson for Wakefern Food Corp. Newsweek contacted Wakefern Food Corp via email for further comment on Thursday morning.
Patulin is a mycotoxin associated particularly with apples and apple-derived foods. The FDA’s regulatory guidance sets an action level of 50 parts per billion for patulin in apple juice, concentrates and products containing apple juice. The agency says regulatory action may be considered when testing confirms patulin at or above that threshold.
Wakefern has not disclosed the concentration detected in this product, the number of jars involved or a complete state-by-state distribution list. The announcement says affected jars were distributed through ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Gourmet Garage and Fairway Market. Wakefern operates more than 380 supermarkets under several banners across New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island, but that wider store footprint should not be treated as the confirmed recall area.
Consumers with questions can call 1-800-746-7748. No other products sold at the named supermarkets are included in the recall, according to the announcement. This is a developing story.
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