A popular festive chocolate sold at Aldi stores across the United States has been subjected to an expanded recall due to a packaging error that could cause serious allergic reactions. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued updated alerts concerning two varieties of Choceur-branded Holiday Bark.
Packaging Mix-Up Sparks Initial Recall
Silvestri Sweets Inc. first initiated a voluntary recall earlier in December 2025 after discovering a significant packaging mistake. The company found that its Cookie Butter Holiday Bark had been placed in packaging meant for the Pecan, Cranberry & Cinnamon Holiday Bark, and vice versa.
This error meant the Cookie Butter product could contain undeclared pecans, a tree nut, while the Pecan, Cranberry & Cinnamon bark might contain undeclared wheat. For individuals with allergies or severe sensitivities to these ingredients, consumption could trigger a "serious or life-threatening allergic reaction."
Recall Expanded to Include Additional Batches
On 22 December 2025, the FDA published a new report announcing that Silvestri Sweets had widened the recall to include more five-ounce bags of the affected products. The expansion was due to the same risk of undeclared allergens stemming from the packaging mix-up.
Consumers are urged to check their cabinets for the following specific lot codes and Best By dates:
- Cookie Butter Holiday Bark: Lot codes 28525 (Best By May 2026), 29925 (Best By May 2026), and 30625 (Best By June 2026).
- Pecan, Cranberry & Cinnamon Holiday Bark: Lot codes 28525 (Best By August 2026), 29925 (Best By August 2026), and 30625 (Best By September 2026).
These newly identified batches are in addition to those in the initial recall, which included products with lot number 29225.
Understanding the Allergy Risk and Wider Context
The FDA classifies wheat as one of the nine major food allergens in the US. Allergic reactions can range from hives and swelling to severe, potentially fatal anaphylaxis, which impacts breathing and can cause shock.
This incident is part of a broader trend of food recalls linked to undeclared allergens in 2025. For instance, in November, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams recalled a batch of its Passion Fruit Dreamsicle Ice Cream Bars because they contained undeclared wheat and soy due to a manufacturing error.
Fortunately, in the case of the Aldi holiday chocolate bark recall, no illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported to date. The affected products were distributed nationwide to Aldi stores in the US. Customers who have purchased the recalled items should not consume them and can return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
