Blooming Import Inc., a company based in Brooklyn, New York, has voluntarily recalled 74 cases of its Golden Crop Candy because the product contains color additives that were not listed on the label. This recall affects candy sold in eight states: New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Missouri, Delaware, and Texas.
Why This Recall Matters
Although allergic reactions to food color additives are rare, the FDA requires all color additives to be clearly declared on product labels. This helps consumers, especially those with allergies or sensitivities, avoid potentially harmful ingredients. The presence of undeclared color additives breaks labeling laws and could put sensitive individuals at risk.
What You Should Know
The recalled product is the 10-ounce Golden Crop Candy, which contains the dyes Blue 1, Red 40, and Acid Red 18 (E124). While Blue 1 and Red 40 are approved for use in foods by the FDA, Acid Red 18 is not approved and is considered an illegal additive.
The FDA classified this recall as Class II, meaning that while the product might cause temporary or medically reversible health effects, serious health issues are unlikely.
Color additives are used to give color to food, enhance natural colors, or add color to otherwise colorless items. However, some additives like Acid Red 18 are banned due to health concerns, especially regarding children. Studies have linked some food dyes to increased hyperactivity in children, sparking growing concern.
What Experts Are Saying
Dr. Linda Katz, director of the FDA’s Office of Cosmetics and Colors, explained, “Color additives are safe when used properly. The FDA evaluates new color additives to ensure there is a ‘reasonable certainty of no harm’ under their intended use.”
Francisco Diez-Gonzalez, a food safety expert at the University of Georgia, told Newsweek that although Blue 1 and Red 40 are FDA-approved, Acid Red 18 is not allowed in foods. He noted some studies suggest these dyes could cause allergic or behavioral reactions in children, but evidence is not conclusive. Animal studies have found mixed results regarding cancer risk.
What to Do if You Have the Product
If you bought Golden Crop Candy in one of the affected states, do not eat it. Check packaging for the UPC code 73476513450 to see if your product is part of the recall.
If you or someone you know experiences any adverse reactions after consuming the candy, report it to your local FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator immediately.
What’s Next?
The FDA is actively monitoring this recall and will update information as needed. Consumers should stay alert for updates and always read product labels carefully, especially if you or your family have food allergies or sensitivities.
