Colorado Company Recalls Bread Crumbs Due to Undeclared Allergens

Outside The Breadbox, a Colorado-based company operating under the business name VH Foods, has initiated a nationwide voluntary recall of certain 8-ounce packages of bread crumbs due to potentially undeclared allergens. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the recalled product may contain eggs and milk that aren’t listed on the packaging. These ingredients are among the nine major food allergens defined by law, alongside fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame. For individuals with allergies to eggs or milk, consuming these products could trigger reactions ranging from mild symptoms like hives and lip swelling to potentially life-threatening complications, including anaphylaxis with fatal respiratory problems. This recall highlights the critical importance of accurate food labeling, especially for products containing common allergens that affect millions of Americans.

The specific product being recalled is the 8-ounce Bread Crumbs package with UPC code 8738 9900 1554 and an expiration date of May 20, 2026. These bread crumbs were distributed to retail stores throughout Colorado and were also sold nationwide through the company’s website between January 12, 2025, and November 24. The products come in clear stand-up pouches, making them easily identifiable to consumers who may have purchased them. The recall was initiated after the discovery that milk and eggs were not properly listed as ingredients on the packaging. The FDA reports that the issue stemmed from a “temporary breakdown” in the company’s packaging and production processes, though they emphasized that this was an isolated incident occurring on just a single production date. Fortunately, as of January 12, no illnesses had been reported in connection with the consumption of the recalled bread crumbs.

Food allergies represent a significant and growing public health concern in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately one in 13 children, or about 8 percent, suffer from food allergies. This translates to roughly two students in every classroom across America. Furthermore, at least 40 percent of children with food allergies have required emergency treatment for allergic reactions at some point. The FDA emphasizes that “food allergies and other types of food hypersensitivities affect millions of Americans and their families” and occur when “the body’s immune system reacts to certain proteins in food.” Because of these serious health implications, federal law requires that food labels clearly identify all major food allergens used in the production of packaged foods.

The importance of proper allergen labeling cannot be overstated, as it provides critical information that allows individuals with food allergies to make safe choices about what they consume. When allergens go undeclared, as in this case with eggs and milk in the bread crumbs, people with allergies to these ingredients may unknowingly consume them and experience potentially dangerous reactions. For some individuals with severe allergies, even trace amounts of an allergen can trigger a significant immune response. The FDA advises that “people with food allergies should read labels and avoid the foods they are allergic to,” which is only possible when manufacturers provide complete and accurate ingredient information on their packaging. This recall serves as a reminder of the vital role that proper food labeling plays in protecting public health, particularly for vulnerable populations with food allergies.

Outside The Breadbox is actively addressing the situation by working with the FDA to ensure the recall is thorough and effective. The company has implemented the recall process according to established protocols, and the FDA has confirmed that the recall is ongoing. For consumers who may have purchased the affected bread crumbs, the company is offering multiple options to address the issue. Customers are advised to either return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund or contact the company directly at 1-719-633-3434 with any questions or concerns. This proactive approach demonstrates the company’s commitment to consumer safety and compliance with food safety regulations, despite the unfortunate breakdown in their packaging process that led to the recall.

While food recalls can be concerning for consumers, they represent an essential safety mechanism in our food system that helps prevent potential harm when issues are identified. In this case, the quick action taken by Outside The Breadbox to initiate the voluntary recall upon discovering the undeclared allergens likely prevented allergic reactions that could have occurred had the products remained on the market. The isolated nature of the incident—affecting only products from a single production date—also suggests that the company’s quality control systems generally function effectively, with this recall representing an exception rather than a pattern. For consumers with food allergies, this situation underscores the importance of staying informed about food recalls and always checking product labels, even for familiar items, as ingredients and manufacturing processes can sometimes change. The FDA maintains an updated database of food recalls on their website, providing a valuable resource for consumers concerned about food safety and allergen information.