by Illinois — Just days before Christmas, a popular holiday treat sold at grocery stores nationwide is being pulled from shelves after federal officials warned it could pose a serious, potentially life-threatening allergy risk for some consumers.
An Illinois-based sweets company has issued a voluntary recall involving seasonal holiday bark sold at Aldi locations across the U.S., according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
What Products Are Being Recalled
The recall affects 5-ounce stand-up pouch bags of Choceur-branded Holiday Bark, a seasonal item widely purchased during the holidays. The affected products were manufactured by Silvestri Sweets of Geneva, Illinois.
The two recalled varieties are:
- Cookie Butter Holiday Bark
- Pecan, Cranberry & Cinnamon Holiday Bark
These items were sold at Aldi locations nationwide.
Why the Recall Was Issued
According to the FDA, the recall was triggered by a packaging mix-up that could expose consumers to undeclared allergens.
- The Cookie Butter Holiday Bark may contain undeclared pecans
- The Pecan, Cranberry & Cinnamon Holiday Bark may contain undeclared wheat
Both pecans and wheat are major food allergens, and consuming them without proper labeling can cause severe or life-threatening allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
The FDA emphasized that even small amounts of undeclared allergens can pose serious health risks to people with sensitivities or allergies.
Read Also: Health Alert: Nearly 2,000 Pounds of Sausage Sold Nationwide Recalled Over Metal Contamination
Lot Numbers and Best-By Dates
Consumers are urged to check packaging carefully. The recall applies to products with the following lot numbers:
- 28525
- 29925
- 30625
The affected best-by dates include:
- May and June 2026 for Cookie Butter Holiday Bark
- August and September 2026 for Pecan, Cranberry & Cinnamon Holiday Bark
These details can typically be found printed on the back or bottom of the package.
Recall Timeline Expanded Before Christmas
The FDA noted that the initial recall was issued days before Thanksgiving, but the scope of the recall was expanded the day before Christmas Eve, increasing concern as holiday food consumption peaks.
While no illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported so far, federal officials say the timing makes it especially important for households to check pantry items, gift baskets, and holiday dessert trays.
What Consumers Should Do
The FDA advises anyone who purchased the recalled products to:
- Not consume the holiday bark
- Discard the product immediately or return it to the store
- Avoid serving it to guests, especially if allergy histories are unknown
Consumers with pecan or wheat allergies are urged to take extra caution, even if the product was previously consumed without symptoms.
Allergen Risks Remain a Leading Recall Cause
Food safety experts say undeclared allergens remain one of the most common reasons for U.S. food recalls, especially during the holiday season when production volumes increase and packaging errors are more likely.
Federal officials continue to remind consumers that labels are a critical safety tool, particularly for families managing food allergies during gatherings and celebrations.
Bottom Line
A popular holiday bark sold at Aldi stores nationwide has been recalled due to undeclared pecans and wheat, posing a potentially life-threatening risk for people with allergies. Shoppers are urged to check lot numbers and discard affected products immediately, even if no illness has occurred.
Did you buy this product or have concerns about holiday food recalls? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion.
