A new Costco ravioli recall alert is raising concerns among shoppers after federal officials warned that a pasta product sold in two states may contain undeclared shellfish allergens. The warning affects customers in Maryland and New Jersey who recently purchased the ravioli item.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued the alert on May 4. Officials discovered that packages labeled as beef sauce and burrata ravioli actually contained shrimp ravioli in lobster sauce. The packaging failed to list shellfish ingredients, creating a serious risk for people with allergies.
The Costco ravioli recall alert applies to 32-ounce plastic bag packages of Giovanni Rana Rustic Beef Sauce & Creamy Burrata Cheese Ravioli. Officials said the products carried establishment number “44870.” The packages also displayed use-by dates between May 14 and June 25.
Why the Costco ravioli recall alert was issued
Federal investigators said the problem involves misbranding and undeclared allergens. The product label did not mention shrimp or lobster ingredients even though the ravioli contained shellfish.
Health experts warn that shellfish can trigger dangerous allergic reactions. Symptoms may include swelling, breathing trouble, hives and stomach pain. Severe cases can require emergency medical treatment.
Officials said Costco stores sold the affected ravioli between March 10 and April 21. Stores in Maryland and New Jersey received the products before investigators identified the problem.
Costco contacted federal officials after receiving two customer complaints about incorrect ravioli packaging. Those reports pushed investigators to issue the Costco ravioli recall alert and warn consumers who may still have the product at home.
Why officials did not issue a formal recall
Although the Costco ravioli recall alert has gained attention, officials did not announce a formal recall. The products had already left store shelves by the time investigators completed their review.
Still, the Food Safety and Inspection Service warned that some customers may still keep the ravioli in refrigerators or freezers.
Officials urged consumers not to eat the affected ravioli if they have shellfish allergies. Customers should throw the products away or return them to Costco.
Authorities have not linked any illnesses to the mislabeled ravioli so far. However, health officials continue to advise consumers to contact a doctor if they experience symptoms after eating the product.
Food allergy concerns continue to rise
The Costco ravioli recall alert arrives as food allergy concerns continue to grow across the United States. Federal agencies have issued several food safety warnings in recent months involving undeclared allergens and contamination risks.
Consumer advocates say accurate food labels help protect millions of Americans with allergies. Shellfish allergies remain among the most common food allergies in adults. Even small amounts can trigger severe reactions.
Costco has not released additional public comments about the issue. The warehouse retailer continues to serve millions of shoppers across the country.
Food safety experts also encourage consumers to check refrigerators and freezers regularly for recalled or flagged products. Frozen foods and packaged meals often remain in homes for long periods.
The Food Safety and Inspection Service continues monitoring reports tied to the Costco ravioli recall alert. Officials also encourage shoppers to review food labels carefully before eating packaged products.
For more food safety updates, readers can also follow recent reports involving frozen pizza recalls and grocery contamination alerts from federal agencies.
Source: PEOPLE
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