Mass Recall in the US: Do Not Drink These Milks!

A wide‑scale recall decision was made in the United States concerning long‑shelf‑life organic chocolate‑flavored dairy products. Following consumer complaints about swelling, leaking, and the possibility that the product could spoil before its expiration date, Horizon Organic Dairy voluntarily removed more than 53,000 cartons from the market.

53,760 Cartons Recalled

The recall covers specific lots of Horizon Organic Shelf‑Stable 1% Chocolate Milk sold nationwide in the United States. It was announced that 12‑ and 18‑carton packages, each containing 8‑ounce cartons, are affected.

The company launched a recall for a total of 53,760 cartons. It was stated that the recommended consumption dates for the products extend until the beginning of 2027.

It was reported that the decision was taken after consumers complained that the packaging had swollen and the products had spoiled earlier than expected.

Packaging Issues Can Spoil the Product

The company's quality and food safety manager, Kendra Harrison, stated that the recall was not initiated due to an allergen, disease-causing microorganisms, or any other microbiological contamination.

It is emphasized that the problem is due to packaging. It is noted that the packaging issue could cause some cartons to swell or leak, and the milk to spoil earlier than usual. It was stated that affected products may have an off taste, odor, or unusual texture.

Following consumer complaints, the company launched an investigation to determine the source of the problem.

Consumers' 'Throw it away' warning

Horizon Organic Dairy recommends that consumers not consume and discard the products covered by the recall. Consumers were asked to keep their purchase receipts, contact the company, and find out whether they are eligible for a refund.

It was reported that the recall process was initiated in coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Second Similar Recall This Year

It emerged that the company had previously encountered a similar issue with its chocolate‑flavored dairy products this year. In March, more than 3,500 cartons of 1% DHA Chocolate Organic Low‑fat Milk were recalled due to a problem detected in the packaging seal that could cause the milk to spoil early.

Months before the latest recall, some consumers had also complained online about the texture of Horizon chocolate‑flavored milk. One consumer reported that in recent cartons of the product he had used for years, he had found solidified pieces, and he notified the company of the issue.

However, there is no verification that the examples shared online are directly linked to the current or previous recall.

Founded in Boulder in 1991 and now headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado, Horizon is known as one of the organic milk brands sold across the United States.