Unexpected Allergen in Breakfast Sandwiches Prompts Urgent Recall

A labeling oversight forces Hearthside Food Solutions to recall approximately 500,000 pounds of breakfast sandwiches for undeclared sesame flour allergen.

Key Takeaways

Hearthside Food Solutions has recalled nearly 500,000 pounds of breakfast sandwiches due to undeclared sesame flour.
The affected products were distributed to Army & Air Force Exchange Services across the U.S.
No adverse reactions have been reported; the USDA advises consumers to avoid consumption.
The recall targets specific sausage and bacon breakfast sandwiches.
The USDA emphasizes urgency due to the severity of potential sesame allergies.

Recall Details

In a move highlighting the critical nature of accurate food labeling, Hearthside Food Solutions has initiated a recall of an estimated 500,000 pounds of breakfast sandwiches. The recall affected products include Lettieri’s ready-to-eat sausage and bacon breakfast sandwiches on French toast, distributed mainly to Army & Air Force Exchange Services channels nationwide. A labeling error was identified when sesame flour, contained within the French toast component, was not disclosed on the ingredient list, potentially endangering those with sesame allergies.

The recall, which covers products produced from April 1, 2023, to March 25, 2025, was publicized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. The USDA has marked 12-month shelf-life sandwiches, featuring lot codes starting with 23, 24, and 25, up to 2508451, emphasizing vigilance in discarding or returning these items.

Consumer Safety Measures

In light of the misbranding, the USDA has issued urgent warnings regarding the sesame allergen’s risks, with adverse allergic reactions being potentially severe. Consumers are advised to dispose of the products or return them swiftly to the point of origin. A USDA representative stated, “These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.”

Although Hearthside Food Solutions has expressed their commitment to transparency and consumer safety, they also remind consumers to routinely check labeling to prevent allergic reactions, despite no confirmed reports of adverse events. The USDA added further guidance for individuals with concerns about illnesses to consult healthcare providers.

Implications for Military Service Member Consumers

The incident underscores the importance of accurate labeling, particularly for products relying heavily on military distribution channels like the Army & Air Force Exchange Services. The establishment markers on these recalled products read “EST. V4907,” further aiding consumers in identifying the affected items.

As the first line of defense in maintaining public safety, Hearthside Food Solutions and USDA stress the seriousness of allergen inclusion on labels, especially those like sesame that are not widely recognized allergens. In the meantime, FOX Business has sought further clarification and comments from Hearthside Food Solutions to offer their perspective regarding the recall and preventive measures.