May 21, 2014: KIND Healthy Snacks bars & maple pumpkin seeds (US)

[GingerPye]

Kind Healthy Snacks Issues Allergy Alert Due to Potential Presence of Peanut Protein in Strong & Kind Bars and Kind Healthy Grains Maple Pumpkin Seeds Bars

Pumpkin Seed Supplier may Have Exposed Seeds to Traces of Peanut Protein

Contact:
Consumer:
(855) 884-5463
customerservice@kindsnacks.com

Media:
KIND Communications Team
(212) 616-3006
communications@kindsnacks.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 21, 2014 - NEW YORK - KIND Healthy Snacks (KIND) is voluntarily recalling STRONG & KIND bars as well as KIND Healthy Grains Maple Pumpkin Seeds with Sea Salt bars after learning that, contrary to KIND's strict quality specifications, its supplier roasted pumpkin seeds using equipment that had also been used to roast peanuts. "While we know our supplier conducted rigorous allergen cleans before roasting the seeds, they did not perform tests to validate that no peanut particles remained, and KIND takes no chances when it comes to the safety of our consumers," said John Leahy, President of KIND.

The five STRONG & KIND bars that are affected by the recall are clearly labeled on the packaging: Roasted Jalapeño, Honey Smoked BBQ, Thai Sweet Chili, Honey Mustard, and Hickory Smoked. In addition, KIND Healthy Grains Maple Pumpkin Seeds with Sea Salt bars are also clearly labeled.

"Even though only certain lot codes may have been affected, out of an abundance of caution, and to minimize any inconvenience for our consumers and retail customers, we are voluntarily recalling all of the supply of these six products currently in the marketplace" said Leahy.

The six bars were distributed nationally in supermarkets and other retail food and non-food outlets.

No allergic reactions to any of the bars have been reported to date; however, people who have an allergy or sensitivity to peanuts should not consume these products. No other KIND products are affected, and the recalled products may be safely consumed by those who do not have an allergy or sensitivity to peanuts.

Customers with questions or who would like product replacements or refunds may contact the company 1 855.884.5463 Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. EST or e-mail the company at customerservice@kindsnacks.com.

This recall is being conducted in cooperation with the Food and Drug Administration.