If you have stocked up your pantry in recent weeks, be sure to keep an eye out for this one pantry staple as an active recall notice has been sent out to shoppers of Walmart, Target, and other various retailers across the country.
A recall notice has been issued for oyster crackers sold under varying labels at supermarkets and retailers across the country due to a potential contamination that could pose serious health risks if consumed.
Recall of oyster crackers sold at several retailers such as Target, Walmart, etc.
The United States Food and Drug Administration recently issued a recall of oyster crackers sold at multiple retailers, including big box giants like Target, or Walmart, citing a contamination of foreign matter that could potentially cause moderate health risks or injury if the product is consumed.
According to the report, it was discovered that pieces of stainless steel wire had found its way into the product and as such a recall was immediately issued with a Class II categorization. Subsequently, consumption of this contaminated product could lead to “a tooth injury and choking hazard, and a GI tract injury.”
As per the standards upheld by the FDA, a Class II categorization for a recall means the imposed risks of the contamination are more moderate than severe and it is explained as “temporary or reversible health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
However, if any individual experiences any health concerns of injury after consuming the product, a doctor should immediately be contacted to prevent further risks.
Where were the recalled products sold and how to identify it
The oyster crackers containing pieces of stainless steel wire was sold in twenty-four states, making its distribution rather widespread. The contaminated product was sold in the following states, Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin.
This recalled product was sold at an array of retailers and supermarket chains. Some of the stores and brands carrying this product include Target under its Market Pantry private label, the Great Value private label range carried at Walmart, Giant Eagle, and Vista — amongst others.
The tainted products can be identified by its UPC codes and best before dates found on the packaging. Since the product was manufactured for various retailers, the labeling may differ from product to product.
The following is a list of brand names, UPC code, and best by dates that can be used to identify if your product is a part of the recall:
- Market Pantry Soup & Oyster crackers – UPC: 085239114933 – Best By Date: May 23, 2025
- Great Value Soup & Oyster Crackers – UPC: 078742085494 – Best By Date: May 23, 2025
- Giant Eagle Oyster Crackers – UPC: 030034915087 – Best By Date: May 24, 2025
- VISTA Soup & Oyster Crackers – UPC: 045100008006 – Best By Date: May 24, 2025
- Bulk Oyster Crackers (20-lb.) – UPC: 10045100400203 – Best By Date: May 24, 2025
The initial notice was sent out in February, and as such, the contaminated product is no longer being sold at any of the retailers who previously stocked the tainted batch. However, due the lengthy shelf life of this product, consumers are urged to ensure that they are not unknowingly in possession of the recalled product so as to prevent the accidental consumption of it which could lead to potential health risks.
Any recalled items can be returned to its place of purchase and a refund will be issued to the shopper. Any additional questions regarding this recall can be forwarded to the FDA by filing an online report through the FDA’s safety reporting portal or by calling 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332) to report by phone or enquire about additional information.