A Southern California food company is recalling a popular brand of dark chocolate raisins sold at Smart & Final stores across California after the product was found to potentially contain undeclared peanuts.
Western Mixers Produce & Nuts, Inc., based in Ontario, California, announced the voluntary recall of its First Street brand Dark Chocolate Raisins, sold in 9-ounce clear plastic containers. The company announced the recall on June 15. The affected product carries UPC 7-97565-01183-0 and lot number 260562, which can be found printed on the side of the container.
The product was distributed through Chedraui USA and sold at Smart & Final retail locations in California. No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall.
Anyone experiencing signs of anaphylaxis—including severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness—should call 911 immediately.
The danger is especially pronounced for children. Peanut allergy has been on the rise among young people, and even a seemingly mild initial reaction does not rule out a more severe response in the future. Children likely at elevated risk include those with moderate to severe eczema, an egg allergy, or both.
Peanut allergies occur when the immune system misidentifies peanut proteins as harmful, releasing chemicals into the bloodstream that produce allergic symptoms. Cross-contact—when peanuts inadvertently enter a product during processing or handling—is one of the primary pathways through which undeclared peanuts can end up in packaged foods.
Western Mixers said consumers who purchased the recalled product and have a peanut allergy should not eat it, and should return it to the store where it was purchased for a full refund. Shoppers with questions can contact the company's Food Safety Department directly at 323-443-2567.