Khaberni - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has withdrawn hummus products from specialty food stores on the East Coast after discovering they contained an undeclared allergenic substance.
This step aims to protect consumers from potential or treatable harmful health effects.
The Connecticut Consumer Protection Agency warned that "Carrot Top Country Kitchens" has recalled five specific types of hummus because they contain sesame, an ingredient not listed on the label and considered one of the major food allergens.
The affected flavors include:
Lemon and garlic hummus.
Lemon and ginger hummus.
White truffle hummus.
Sun-dried tomato hummus with capers and cherry peppers.
Each product comes in an 8-ounce plastic package bearing the flavor name. These products have been distributed to "RoShamBo Farm" in Bedford, New York, as well as sold at various farmers markets in Connecticut.
Sesame allergies develop as a result of genetic predispositions interacting with environmental triggers. The immune system can become sensitive to sesame at any age, even without an immediate reaction. Upon re-exposure, the immune system launches a strong response, producing IgE antibodies that stimulate the release of histamine, leading to symptoms appearing within minutes to two hours.
These symptoms include: rash, itching, numbness in the mouth, severe shortness of breath, and low blood pressure.
To date, no illnesses or allergic reactions associated with the labeling error have been recorded.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has warned that individuals with severe sesame allergies are at risk of severe or life-threatening allergic reactions.
