Washington, D.C., USA- January 13, 2020: FDA Sign at its headquarters in Washington DC. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or USFDA) is a federal agency of the USA.
WATERBURY, CT — Cookie lovers in Connecticut and parts of Massachusetts are being urged to check their pantries after Gina Marie Bakery of Waterbury issued a voluntary recall of several varieties of cookies due to undeclared allergens and food dyes.
The recall affects 1 lb. and 2 lb. packages of cookies that may contain undeclared almonds, sesame seeds, and a range of artificial food colorings including Red 40, Red 3, Blue 1, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6—which could pose serious or even life-threatening risks to individuals with food allergies or sensitivities.
Recalled Cookie Varieties:
- Italian Mixed Vanilla Cookies – Undeclared Almonds, Sesame, Red 40, Red 3, Blue 1
- Italian Sesame Cookies – Undeclared Yellow 5, Red 40, Yellow 6
- Vanilla Chocolate Dipped Cookies – Undeclared Red 40
- Vanilla with Apricot Jam Cookies – Undeclared Red 40, Yellow 6
- Toasted Almond & Cherry Biscotti – Undeclared Red 40
- Vanilla Cookies with Raspberry Peach Jam – Undeclared Red 3, Blue 1
Where the Cookies Were Sold:
The affected cookies were distributed throughout Connecticut and into Springfield, Massachusetts at a wide range of supermarkets and specialty food stores, including: Big Y, Stop & Shop, Price Chopper, LaBonne’s, Highland Park Markets, Adam’s Markets, Raggozzino’s, Lewis Farms, Liuzzi Gourmet Food Market, and Nardelli’s (under their own label). Numerous local and independent retailers across towns like Watertown, Waterbury, Southington, Glastonbury, Torrington, Newington, and more
Why the Recall Matters:
Undeclared allergens are a major safety concern. People with nut or sesame allergies could suffer severe allergic reactions from consuming these cookies unknowingly. Similarly, food dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 6 can cause adverse effects in some individuals, particularly children or those with sensitivities.
No allergic reactions or illnesses have been reported so far, and the bakery is working closely with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection to resolve the issue and ensure all labeling complies with safety standards.
What To Do If You Bought These Cookies:
- Do not eat them, especially if you or anyone in your household has food allergies or dye sensitivities.
- Return the product to the store of purchase for a full refund.
- Consumers with questions can contact Gina Marie Bakery directly at 203-596-8007.
