The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent food recall for several types of decorated cakes, warning they contain a life-threatening allergen not declared on the packaging.
What Products Are Affected?
Virginia-based manufacturer Ukrop’s Homestyle Foods, LLC, is recalling four varieties of its Decorated Pound Cakes. The undeclared soy was discovered in a 'cake releasing agent' used to prevent the products from sticking during production.
The specific recalled items are:
- 8-inch Pound Cake with Buttercream Icing and Pink Roses
- 8-inch Pound Cake with Buttercream Icing and Red Roses
- 6-inch Pound Cake with Buttercream Icing and Red Roses
- 6-inch Pound Cake with Buttercream Icing and Confetti
All have a best-by date of December 15, 2025. The relevant UPC codes are: 72252591452; 72252591456; 72252591820; and 72252591849.
Severe Health Risks and Distribution
For the nearly 2 million Americans with a soy allergy, consuming these cakes could trigger reactions ranging from mild hives and itching to severe, potentially fatal anaphylaxis. This rapid allergic reaction can cause throat swelling, vomiting, dizziness, and critical breathing difficulties.
The affected cakes were sold in 28 Kroger Mid-Atlantic and Ukrop's Market Hall stores across Virginia and West Virginia. No other products from Ukrop’s Homestyle Foods are involved. The company has stated that no illnesses or incidents have been reported to date in connection with this recall.
What Consumers Should Do
Customers who have purchased the recalled cakes should not consume them. They are advised to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
This incident is not isolated. Earlier this month, the FDA announced a similar recall for Lunds and Byerlys's L&B Monster Cookies, which were found to contain undeclared peanuts, eggs, and soy. That recall was initiated after a store employee raised concerns. Consumers are urged to remain vigilant about checking product labels and recall notices for undeclared allergens.
