After a recent recall of Sun Noodle’s instant noodles, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has updated the risk level for the product.
This recall is now deemed a Class I recall, which is only issued if there is a “reasonable probability” that eating this product could “cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
An Undisclosed Ingredient
The FDA’s Class I update follows Sun Noodle recalling many of their instant noodle products in May. Sun Noodle voluntarily recalled these products because of the undeclared presence of eggs.
Egg is a major allergen and its presence must be clearly stated on food labeling. The Sun Noodle products being recalled are the company’s S&S Cup Saimin—Noodles With Soup & Garnishes.
One of Nine Major Allergens
For those allergic to eggs, reactions to the animal produce can range from small to severe. Because of this, the FDA requires food items to be labeled if they contain eggs, or any other common allergen.
The nine major allergens are egg, milk, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, fish, tree nuts, crustacean shellfish, and sesame.
Improper Labeling
These Sun Noodle products were first recalled in May because the company became aware that the food items had eggs in them — and this wasn’t properly labeled on the packaging.
The company has since said that the “egg white powder ingredient is limited to the Fish Cake within this (frozen) soup and noodle cup and this product has very limited distribution.”
What Other Classifications Can The FDA Issue?
There are two other, less serious, classifications the FDA can give a recall. A Class II recall is issued in “a situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
A Class II classification can be put on a recall if the item is unlikely to cause any health consequences. A Class III recall is issued in “a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.”
Why Did The FDA Update It’s Risk Warning?
Before this most recent update, the Sun Noodle recall had not been issued any classification warning.
However, the FDA may have chosen to update this recall to Class I because of the potentially severe symptoms and allergic reactions consumers could have to the product.
Food Allergy Reactions
Food allergy reactions vary. Common symptoms include rashes, hives, swelling, diarrhea, and vomiting.
However, for those with life-threatening allergies, reactions can include swelling of the throat, loss of consciousness, and difficulty breathing.
The Recalled Products
The recalled Sun Noodle products were mainly distributed to four states: California, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah.
The recalled noodles have the lot codes 1623129 — 1623365, as well as 1624001 — 1624129.
How To Return Recalled Products
When this recall was first issued, Sun Noodle told their customers to return these items to the stores they bought them from to receive a full refund.
The manufacturer also said, “We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience or concern this may cause and assure our customers that we are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and quality of our products.”
2024: A Busy Year For Recalls
The Sun Noodle recall comes amidst a number of food and drink recalls this year.
In May, Hy-Vee cream cheese spread and cookie mixes were recalled over Salmonella fears. Meanwhile, the Charles Boggini Company recently recalled several sodas over undisclosed ingredients.
