Sunflower seed fans in Cleveland might want to hit pause before their next handful. George J. Howe Co. has voluntarily recalled 13,619 pounds of sunflower seeds after discovering that some packages may contain undeclared cashews, a tree nut that can cause serious or even life-threatening reactions in people with allergies. So far, no illnesses have been reported.
What Was Recalled
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the recall, announced by the company on May 7 and posted by the agency on May 8, covers three types of packaging:
- 11-ounce stand-up pouches labeled "Fresh Roasted Sunflower Seeds" in lightly salted
- 11-ounce stand-up pouches labeled "Fresh Roasted Sunflower Seeds" in no salt
- 9.5-ounce plastic tubs of roasted and salted sunflower seeds
The recall notice lists specific UPCs and best-by dates through December 2026 and says the action affects a total of 13,619 pounds of product. Regulators say a routine inspection found sunflower seeds that contained cashews had been distributed in packaging that did not declare the tree-nut allergen on the label.
Where It Was Sold
Food Safety News reports that the affected products were shipped to customers in 23 states, including Ohio. The seeds were sold through major grocery chains such as Giant Eagle, Walmart, Piggly Wiggly, Shop Rite and Foodland, and also went to foodservice accounts, airport concessions, and institutional buyers.
Local outlets, including Cleveland.com, have shared product photos and shopping tips to help Northeast Ohio shoppers figure out whether the seeds in their pantry are part of the recall.
What Consumers Should Do
Anyone who bought the listed products is being asked not to eat them. Instead, consumers can return the packages to the place of purchase for a full refund or contact the company directly with questions. The recall notice lists a customer service line at 800-367-4693 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET) and an email address at [email protected], per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Why Undeclared Nuts Matter
Undeclared tree-nut allergens like cashews are not a minor labeling typo. They can trigger severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, and even trace amounts may be dangerous for sensitive individuals, according to Food Allergy Research & Education. People with known tree-nut allergies are advised to keep epinephrine on hand and to contact a health care provider if they think they have been exposed.
Where This Fits
Food Safety News and other outlets have been tracking a run of food recalls in recent weeks. Experts say labeling problems and production changeover slip-ups are repeat offenders when it comes to food safety risks. The George J. Howe recall is another example of how cross-contact during production or packaging can let undeclared allergens wind up in finished products, long after they are already on store shelves.
