Labeling error spurs margarine recall order

WASHINGTON – A labeling mix-up that could pose a danger to people with dairy allergies is prompting the recall of 3,000 pounds of Fleischmann’s margarine sold in 19 states.

Apparently some Fleischmann’s Original stick margarine was packaged in boxes labeled Fleischmann’s Unsalted stick margarine. The original margarine contains whey, a dairy protein, that the unsalted version does not list as an ingredient.

So people with dairy allergies run the risk of a serious, even life-threatening, allergic reaction if they eat the mislabeled margarine. The Food and Drug Administration said two consumers have reported allergic reactions.

Consumers with dairy allergies should return the recalled margarine to the place of purchase for a refund, said manufacturer ConAgra Diary Foods of Downers Grove, Ill.

To identify the recalled margarine, check for the following code – JAN 31 02 O N – near the “best if used by” date on boxes of Fleischmann’s Unsalted stick margarine. Inside those boxes, the individually wrapped sticks will say “Fleischmann’s Original.”

Also, people on a salt-free diet will consume sodium if they eat the mislabeled version.

The recalled margarine was sold in: Maryland, Virginia, Alabama, Ohio, Connecticut, New York, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island, West Virginia and Michigan.