Simply Lite dark chocolate bars are being recalled because they contain “significant amounts” of milk protein, one of the major food allergens, that is not declared on the label. Anyone with an allergy to milk could have a serious or life-threatening reaction if they consume this product.
The product has the advisory statement “may contain traces of milk”, but the amount of milk protein found in the candy is not what the scientific community and consumers regard as “trace amounts”. If you have eaten this product and have experienced a reaction, please contact an FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator in your state.
The recalled product is Simply Lite brand 50% Cacao Low Carb Sugar Free Dark Chocolate in 3 ounce size. It has the lot codes “Best By: 01 18 2015A ” or “Best By: 01 19 2015A” on the package. Tests found more than 3500 parts per million of milk protein in a single 3-ounce bar, which is equivalent to the amount found in 4 teaspoons of whole milk.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction develop in minutes or within two hours and include hives, flushed skin, rash, tingling or itchy sensation in the mouth. They also include face, tongue or lip swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, coughing or wheezing, dizziness, swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, and a drop in blood pressure.
The product is packaged in a brown plastic wrapper. If you purchased this product and are allergic to milk, do not eat it. Return it to the place of purchase for a refund.
