The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised the alert level for a chocolate recall involving Fran’s Pure Bar Almondmilk Chocolate, declaring it a Class I recall due to undeclared hazelnuts. This classification indicates a significant risk for individuals with nut allergies, as even trace amounts of allergens can lead to serious health consequences or death.
The recall, initiated on December 20, 2025, affects 112 units of the product, which has a net weight of 1.1 ounces. The affected bars were sold between October 9, 2025, and December 15, 2025, at four Fran’s Chocolates locations in Seattle and online at www.frans.com. It was prompted after a supplier notified Fran’s that their Almondmilk chocolate ingredient contained trace amounts of hazelnuts, resulting from processing on shared equipment with other nut products.
Health Risks and Consumer Guidance
The FDA’s Class I classification was assigned on January 14, 2026, following reports of one allergic reaction associated with the chocolate. Although no illnesses or fatalities have been linked to other Fran’s products, the lack of allergen disclosure on the packaging poses a serious risk to consumers with hazelnut allergies.
Fran’s Chocolates urges anyone in possession of the affected product not to consume it. Instead, customers should return the product to the point of purchase for a full refund. The company has communicated the recall through various channels, including emails, press releases, and direct outreach to retail locations.
The FDA emphasizes the importance of accurate food labeling, especially regarding allergens. According to the agency, “Class I indicates a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
Company Response and Next Steps
In a statement regarding the recall, Fran’s Chocolates confirmed that they were informed by a supplier of the contamination risk. The company stated, “We have received a report of one adverse allergic event. No reports of illness or death have been reported on other Fran’s products to date.”
As the situation unfolds, Fran’s Chocolates is actively engaging with both the FDA and consumers affected by the recall. Currently, there is no specified end date for the recall process. Consumers seeking additional information regarding the product, the recall status, or any related concerns can access the FDA’s official recall database or contact Fran’s Chocolates directly at [email protected] or by calling 1-800-422-3726 during business hours.
The incident serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges in food safety and the importance of vigilance in food labeling to protect public health.
