The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified a recent chocolate recall as Class I due to the presence of undeclared hazelnuts, which poses a significant health risk to individuals with hazelnut allergies. This classification indicates the potential for “serious adverse health consequences or death” if the affected product is consumed by sensitive consumers.
The recall involves the Fran’s Pure Bar Almondmilk Chocolate 46 percent Madagascar Plant-Based product, which was voluntarily recalled by Fran’s Chocolates, Ltd. of Seattle, Washington, on December 20, 2025. The recall affects 112 units of the product, weighing 1.1 ounces each, and carrying the UPC 7 49668 24280 2. The chocolates were sold between October 9, 2025, and December 15, 2025, at select Fran’s Chocolates stores in Seattle and through the company’s website.
The recall was initiated following a notification from a supplier, which indicated that the Almondmilk chocolate ingredient tested positive for trace amounts of hazelnuts. This contamination occurred due to shared processing equipment with other nut-containing products. The FDA subsequently classified the recall as Class I on January 14, 2026, after receiving reports of one allergic reaction linked to the product.
Packaging for the affected bars did not disclose the presence of hazelnuts, which raises serious concerns for those with allergies. For individuals sensitive to hazelnuts, even small amounts can trigger life-threatening reactions. As a precaution, consumers who have purchased the affected product are advised not to consume it and to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Fran’s Chocolates has communicated the recall through various channels, including email, press releases, and direct communication with stores. The company has stated, “A supplier informed us that their Almondmilk chocolate ingredient tested positive for trace amounts of hazelnuts because it was processed on the same equipment with other products. We have received a report of one adverse allergic event. No reports of illness or death have been reported on other Fran’s products to date.”
The FDA emphasizes the serious nature of this recall, noting that Class I status reflects a reasonable probability that exposure to the violative product could result in severe health consequences or death.
For consumers seeking further information about the recall, including product details and logistics, the FDA’s official recall database is available, along with direct contact options for Fran’s Chocolates at 1-800-422-3726 or via email at [email protected]. The customer service team is available from Monday to Friday, 07:30 to 17:00 PST.
As the situation develops, Fran’s Chocolates is maintaining communication with affected consumers and the FDA, although no specific end date for the recall has been established. This incident underscores the critical importance of accurate food labeling and the ongoing risks posed by undeclared allergens in consumer products.
