Health authorities are raising serious concerns about potentially dangerous apricots sold across nearly 20 states, due to the presence of undeclared sulfites. These apricots, sold by Turkana Food Inc. under the brand name “Floria Dried Apricots,” have been linked to a health risk that could endanger consumers, particularly those with sensitivities to sulfites. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a formal warning urging consumers to immediately stop eating the affected dried apricots, which have an expiration date of November 2026.
Sulfites are commonly used as preservatives in many foods and beverages, such as dried fruits, wine, and processed products, to help maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. They work by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and mold, extending the shelf life of perishable goods. While sulfites are generally regarded as safe for the majority of the population, their presence in foods can pose serious health risks to certain individuals, especially those with sensitivities or allergies. Reactions can range from mild symptoms such as hives, swelling, and abdominal pain to more severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.
According to FDA regulations, food manufacturers are required to clearly label the presence of sulfites in their products if they contain more than 10 parts per million (ppm) of the additive. However, in this case, a routine inspection by the New York State Department of Agriculture uncovered that the packaging for Turkana Food Inc.’s Floria Dried Apricots did not include any mention of sulfites, despite the fact that the product contained dangerous levels of the chemical. The absence of this crucial information on the packaging could put individuals at significant risk, particularly those who may not be aware of their sensitivity to sulfites.
The contaminated apricots have been sold in a wide range of states, including Florida, Kentucky, Virginia, New York, New Jersey, Tennessee, Massachusetts, Texas, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Maryland, Ohio, Alabama, Missouri, and California. Although no illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported at the time of the recall, the FDA has urged consumers who have purchased these apricots to return them to the store where they were bought for a full refund.
For consumers seeking to identify the affected product, it can be found by looking for the LOT number 440090478-15-333, located at the bottom of the packaging. Additionally, the UPC label of 2539560010, found on a sticker at the top of the package, can be used for further identification. The recall has prompted concern among food safety experts, as sulfite sensitivity is more common than many people realize.
Approximately 4% of the U.S. population, or about 13 million Americans, are estimated to be affected by sulfite sensitivity. This condition is especially prevalent among people with asthma. For those with sulfite allergies or sensitivities, consuming products containing sulfites can lead to a range of symptoms, including wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, sneezing, a stuffy nose, and chest tightness. In more severe cases, exposure to sulfites can trigger asthma attacks or cause anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
People with known sulfite sensitivities are typically advised to avoid sulfite-containing foods and beverages, and many may also be recommended to take antihistamines or Vitamin B12 supplements to help manage their condition. In fact, sulfite sensitivity has been a known issue for decades. In 1986, the FDA instituted a ban on the use of sulfites in fresh fruits and vegetables due to the rising number of cases of sulfite allergies. However, for preserved foods, including dried fruits, the FDA mandates that manufacturers must declare the presence of sulfites if they exceed the threshold of 10 ppm.
This recall comes on the heels of a similar incident in which Texas Pete, a popular brand of hot sauce, was forced to recall bottles of their Habanero Buffalo sauce. It was later discovered that the bottles contained Sriracha sauce instead, and the mix-up led to the inclusion of sulfites that were not listed on the label. Such labeling errors highlight the ongoing challenges in food safety and the importance of accurate and transparent product information for consumers.
The FDA has emphasized that individuals with sulfite allergies or sensitivities are at risk of severe or even life-threatening allergic reactions if they inadvertently consume products that contain sulfites but lack proper labeling. As a result, the agency has urged consumers to be vigilant about checking product labels and to return any recalled products immediately to ensure their safety.