The “Natural Grocers” brand of “ORGANIC DEGLET NOOR DATES PITTED” has been recalled by Vitamin Cottage Natural Foods Markets, Inc. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), these dates may contain coconut, a common allergen which was not listed on the package labeling. Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets, Inc. is a natural grocery chain headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado.
The dates affected by this recall, packaged in clear plastic bags that vary in weight, were distributed to 45 Natural Grocers’ stores in the states of Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. The UPC codes on the “ORGANIC DEGLET NOOR DATES PITTED” packages begin with “200129xxxxxx”; all affected packages also bear a “Packed On” date of “198-17” stamped on the bottom left-hand corner of the label.
Coconut is an allergen that can cause serious, sometimes life-threatening illness in those who are allergic or sensitive to it. Consumers are advised to dispose of these dates or to return them to the store for a refund.