Voluntary recall issued on popular cheese slices over choking hazard

Kraft Heinz has issued a voluntary recall on approximately 83,800 cases of individually-wrapped Kraft Singles American processed cheese slices.

The decision to recall these products stems from a temporary issue that was identified on one of their wrapping machines, which could potentially lead to a thin strip of the film remaining on the cheese slice after the wrapper has been removed.

While no serious health issues have been reported, the company has said that it could cause a 'gagging or choking hazard.'

Additionally, they already received complaints from six customers who said they choked because of the packaging defect. The company said:

The issue was discovered after we received several consumer complaints about finding the plastic stuck to a slice, including six complaints of consumers saying they choked or gagged in connection with the issue. No injuries or serious health issues have been reported.

Which products have been affected?

The recall specifically pertains to two product variations:

1. 16 oz. Kraft Singles American Pasteurized Prepared Cheese Product: These are individually-wrapped cheese slices with the following details:Individual package UPC: 0 2100061526 1 'Best When Used By' date: 10 JAN 24 through 27 JAN 24 Individual packages in this recall will contain an S and 72 in the Manufacturing code.
2. 3 lb. Multipacks of Kraft Singles American Pasteurized Prepared Cheese Product: These multipacks are identifiable by the following:Carton UPC: 0 2100060491 3 'Best When Used By' dates: 09 JAN 2024 through 13 JAN 2024 and 16 JAN 2024.

It's crucial to note that no other Kraft Singles varieties or sizes are included in this recall. If you have purchased any of these specific products, it's essential to take action to ensure your safety.

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What to do if you bought the product

If you have purchased any of the affected products mentioned above, it is crucial to take the following steps to ensure your safety:

Refrain from consuming any of the recalled Kraft Singles American processed cheese slices. Your safety is the top priority.

Return the recalled product to the store where it was purchased. Most retailers will provide an exchange or refund for the affected items. This ensures that you are not at risk, and you receive a replacement or your money back.

Kraft Heinz said in their statement that they have already resolved the issue by fixing the machine responsible for wrapping the affected cheese slices. Additionally, all other processing machines have undergone thorough inspections to prevent any future occurrences of this nature. They said:

Kraft Heinz has fixed the machine that wrapped the affected slices and all other processing machines have been thoroughly inspected.

Sources used:

Kraft Heinz press statement