The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated its response to a chocolate recall involving Fran’s Pure Bar Almondmilk Chocolate, assigning it a Class I risk classification. This designation indicates that consumption of the product could lead to “serious adverse health consequences or death” for individuals with a hazelnut allergy.
This recall was initiated after Fran’s Chocolates, Ltd. of Seattle, Washington voluntarily recalled 112 units of the affected product on December 20, 2025. The recall was prompted by a supplier’s notification that trace amounts of hazelnuts were detected in the Almondmilk chocolate due to processing on shared equipment with other nut-containing products. The recall specifically affects bars sold between October 9, 2025, and December 15, 2025, at four Fran’s Chocolates locations and online at www.frans.com.
The FDA’s Class I classification, issued on January 14, 2026, follows a report of one adverse allergic event related to the product. Although no illnesses or fatalities have been reported concerning other Fran’s offerings, the packaging for the recalled chocolate failed to disclose the presence of hazelnuts, posing a significant risk to sensitive consumers.
Consumers holding the recalled product are advised not to consume it and to return it to the point of purchase for a full refund. The recall announcement has been disseminated through various channels, including email, fax, letters, press releases, and direct communication with stores. For further details regarding the recall, individuals can access the FDA’s official recall database or contact Fran’s Chocolates at 1-800-422-3726 on weekdays from 07:30 to 17:00 PST.
Importance of Accurate Food Labeling
The incident underscores the critical importance of precise food labeling and the ongoing risks that undeclared allergens present to consumers. In light of the recent findings, Fran’s Chocolates 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 elaborates on the significance of the Class I designation, stating, “Class I indicates a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.” The agency continues to monitor the situation closely, and Fran’s Chocolates is actively communicating with affected consumers. However, no specific end date for the recall has been established.
As this situation develops, it serves as a reminder for consumers to be vigilant regarding food labels, particularly those with known allergies. The FDA’s response and Fran’s Chocolates’ proactive measures aim to protect public health and ensure consumer safety during this troubling incident.
