The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall notice concerning Terrafina Golden Raisins due to the presence of an undeclared ingredient that poses serious health risks for some consumers.
Recently posted on the FDA’s website, the alert emphasizes that individuals with “an allergy or severe sensitivity to sulfites” should refrain from consuming these 1-ounce packages of raisins, as sulfites may be present without being indicated on the label.
This recall was launched by Sunco & Frenchie LLC, based in Pine Brook, NJ, after state inspectors detected sulfites during routine checks, which were not disclosed on the packaging.
The advisory urges anyone who has bought Terrafina Brand Golden Raisins to avoid consumption and return the product for a full refund. The recalled items were sold in retail locations across New York in clear, square plastic tubs adorned with an orange label. The back of the package indicates distribution by Smith Valley Foods LLC.
The affected raisins carry a UPC code of 847938001385 and “Best If Used By” dates of either “05/2025” or “08/2025.” Lot numbers involved in the recall are GRA240602 and GDR240901.
Consumers with questions or concerns can reach out to the company at 973-478-1011 during weekday hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern Time).
As of the latest update, there have been no reported illnesses linked to this recall.
Though dark raisins often lack added sulfites, golden raisins and other light dried fruits are frequently treated with sulfur dioxide to retain color. Sulfites are naturally found in various foods, such as wine, tomatoes, and garlic; while they generally aren’t a concern for most people, they can trigger serious allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including anaphylaxis, which demands immediate medical intervention.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include swelling of the throat, breathing difficulties, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and unconsciousness. Other allergic reactions can manifest as rashes, hives, or gastrointestinal issues.
Additionally, sulfites can provoke asthma attacks in sensitive individuals; studies indicate that around 10% of people with asthma may have a sensitivity to these substances.
Notably, sulfites are not classified among the FDA’s nine major food allergens, which include milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, sesame, and soybeans. According to the CDC, about 6% of adults and 8% of children in the U.S. have at least one food allergy.