To ensure the safety of consumers, a major hummus brand has issued a voluntary recall due to potential contamination. This move underscores the importance of vigilance when it comes to food safety and quality control. Here’s everything you need to know about the recall and how it affects you.

Avoid Risk: Act Now to Protect Your Health

Understanding the Recall Scope

The recent recall by King Harvest involves multiple varieties of hummus sold in select regions. The company identified plastic fragments in certain batches, prompting immediate action to safeguard public health. Affected products were distributed exclusively in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington through Pacific Coast Fresh Co. and Kroger-affiliated stores such as Fred Meyer and QFC.This precautionary measure covers a wide range of flavors, including Balsamic, Black Olive, Chipotle, Classic, Jalapeño, Lemon, Roasted Pepper, Roasted Garlic, Spinach, Sundried Tomato, Toasted Onion, and Toasted Sesame. Containers with expiration dates between February 2, 2025, and March 2, 2025, are subject to this recall.

Regional Distribution and Retail Impact

Consumers in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington should be particularly vigilant. These states received the affected hummus batches primarily through Pacific Coast Fresh Co. and Kroger-affiliated retailers. If you’ve recently purchased King Harvest hummus from these locations, it is crucial to inspect your packaging immediately.Retailers have been instructed to remove all recalled products from their shelves. However, some tubs may still be in consumer homes, posing an ongoing risk. Even if the product appears normal or past its expiration date, the presence of non-degradable plastic fragments remains a significant concern.

Evaluating the Contamination Risks

While no injuries have been reported, the FDA classified this as a Class II recall due to the serious nature of the contamination. Unlike bacterial contamination, which can lead to foodborne illness, plastic fragments present different dangers. These include choking hazards, especially for young children, and potential digestive injuries from sharp pieces.The company’s swift response highlights the importance of addressing foreign object contamination. Plastic does not degrade over time, meaning the risk persists regardless of storage conditions. Consumers who froze or kept the hummus beyond its expiration date must remain cautious. Discarding or returning the product is essential to avoid any potential harm.

King Harvest’s Proactive Measures

In response to the incident, King Harvest initiated an internal investigation to identify the source of the contamination. The company is reviewing its production and quality control processes to prevent future occurrences. Retailers have removed the recalled items from shelves, and consumers are urged not to consume any affected products.For those who have purchased the recalled hummus, refunds are available upon return to the store. Clear contact information has been provided for customer inquiries related to the recall. King Harvest remains committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality in its products.

The Broader Implications for Food Safety

This recall serves as a critical reminder that food safety extends beyond checking expiration dates and spotting visible signs of spoilage. Foreign object contamination poses serious physical risks, even if the product looks perfectly fine. The FDA continues to monitor this situation closely, working with King Harvest to ensure compliance with safety regulations.Recalls like this highlight the importance of staying informed about food alerts. While we’re accustomed to scanning labels for allergens or signs of spoilage, paying attention to recalls is equally vital. For more detailed information, visit the FDA food recall advisory page or consult Pacific Coast Fresh Co.’s food safety resources.