FDA issues highest-level recall for “non-dairy” creamer that actually contains milk, putting allergy sufferers at risk of life-threatening reactions.
At a Glance
- MO-CHA brand Premium Non-Dairy Creamer has been recalled due to containing undeclared milk ingredients
- The FDA classified this as a Class I recall – their highest risk level – as it could cause serious health consequences or death
- Approximately 4,500 cases were distributed across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut
- The China-imported product contains milk-derived ingredients like whey powder and casein but fails to list milk as an allergen
- All units currently on the market are affected by this recall
FDA Issues Critical Recall for Mislabeled “Non-Dairy” Creamer
The Food and Drug Administration has issued its most serious type of recall for MO-CHA brand Premium Non-Dairy Creamer after discovering the product actually contains milk ingredients not disclosed on its label. The Class I recall, initiated on April 10 and classified on April 22, affects all units of the product distributed by Momo Tea Inc. of Maspeth, New York. This type of recall is reserved for situations where there is a reasonable probability that product use will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.
“Every three minutes in the United States, someone ends up in an emergency room because of an allergic reaction after accidental ingestion of food. So even when we try hard, these reactions are happening. And if you look at the incidence of anaphylaxis, it has skyrocketed in the last 5, 10, 20 years. And in the U.S., there’s like a 300 to 400 percent increase in the rates of anaphylaxis to foods.”, said Dr. Sebastian Lighvani.
The product was imported from China and distributed in 2.2-pound bags across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Approximately 4,500 cases of the creamer have been distributed throughout the Northeast region. The product has a two-year shelf life, and the recall affects all units currently on the market with no specific lot codes or identifiers mentioned in the recall notice.
Serious Health Risks for Allergy Sufferers
The mislabeled creamer contains milk-derived ingredients including whey powder and casein, potentially triggering severe allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies. For those with such allergies, consumption of these ingredients can lead to life-threatening anaphylaxis, which may cause difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, and a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Medical experts have noted that milk allergies are widespread in the United States.
“Whey proteins can cause serious reactions in those with milk allergies…Milk allergy affects two to three percent of children in the U.S., and one to two percent of adults in the U.S.”, said Dr. Anne Marie Singh.
The misleading “non-dairy” labeling is particularly concerning as consumers with milk allergies specifically seek out these products as safer alternatives. The FDA emphasizes that consumers with milk allergies or sensitivities should not consume this product. The recall remains ongoing according to the FDA’s notice, and consumers who have purchased the product should discard it or return it to the place of purchase.
Other Creamer Recalls
In a separate but related incident, the FDA also recently announced a recall for International Delight Cinnabon Creamer and Hazelnut Creamer due to premature spoilage and potential illness. This Class II recall affects approximately 75,000 bottles distributed across 31 states. Unlike the MO-CHA recall, this is considered a lower risk situation where adverse health consequences are possible but less severe or where the probability of serious consequences is remote.
The affected International Delight products include 32-ounce bottles of Cinnabon Classic Cinnamon Roll Coffee Creamer and Hazelnut Coffee Creamer with specific best-by dates and product codes. Consumers who purchased these products can return them to the store for a replacement or refund. These multiple creamer recalls highlight the importance of strict quality control and accurate labeling in the food industry, especially for products that may contain common allergens.
