The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) published a voluntary recall notice on Friday that was initiated by Publix Super Markets on October 14 for one lot of Publix Rich & Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream due to the presence of an undeclared egg allergen.
The recall stems from a critical labeling error. Half-gallon containers labeled as Vanilla Ice Cream actually contain Publix Rich & Creamy French Vanilla Ice Cream with mismatched French Vanilla container lids.
This packaging mismatch means consumers relying on the label to avoid allergens could unknowingly purchase a product containing eggs, triggering potentially severe or life-threatening allergic reactions.
Newsweek reached out to Publix via email on Saturday for comment.
Why It Matters
Numerous public health alerts and recalls have been initiated this year because of the potential for damaged products, foodborne illness, contamination and undeclared food allergens.
Millions of Americans experience food sensitivities or allergies every year. According to the FDA, the nine “major” food allergens in the United States are eggs, milk, fish, wheat, soybeans, crustacean shellfish, sesame, tree nuts and peanuts.
For individuals with egg allergies or severe sensitivities, consuming this mislabeled product could trigger serious or life-threatening allergic reactions. Consumers with allergies depend on clear labeling to make safe purchasing decisions, and a mismatch between actual product contents and packaging creates a dangerous situation.
What To Know
The half-gallon container of Publix Rich & Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream has a sell-by date of “June 19, 2026, A,” with UPC code 41415 03043.
The recalled product was distributed to Publix stores in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida, with the exception of stores in Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Tampa, and Sarasota. Publix locations in Virginia and North Carolina were not affected by this recall.
To date, the company reports no confirmed cases of illness related to the recalled product.
Consumers may return the product to their local Publix store for a full refund, regardless of whether the product has been opened or consumed.
What People Are Saying
Publix Director of Communications Maria Brous said in a statement: “As part of our commitment to food safety, potentially impacted product has been removed from all store shelves. To date, there have been no reported cases of illness. Consumers who have purchased the product in question may return the product to their local store for a full refund.”
What Happens Next?
Publix customers who purchased the recalled ice cream should inspect their freezers for the product and consider returning it for a refund. The company will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if any additional concerns emerge.
Customers with additional questions can contact the company’s customer care department toll-free at 1-800-242-1227 or visit publix.com for more information
