FDA Recalls 64,800 Pounds of Bunge North America’s NH European Style Butter Blend Over Undeclared Milk Allergen

A Nationwide Recall Sparks Concern

On July 14, 2025, Bunge North America, Inc., a Chesterfield, Missouri-based agribusiness, voluntarily recalled 64,800 pounds (1,800 cases) of its NH European Style Butter Blend due to undeclared milk, a major allergen not listed on the product label. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) escalated the recall to a Class II risk level on July 31, signaling that consumption may cause “temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences” for those with milk allergies, though serious harm is unlikely. The affected product, packaged in white paperboard cases containing 36 one-pound blocks, was distributed to 12 centers across the United States and one in the Dominican Republic.

The recall, identified by UPC code 1 00 78684 73961 2 and lot code 5064036503, primarily impacts foodservice and institutional kitchens, such as restaurants and bakeries, rather than retail shelves. Bunge, a major player in food ingredients like corn, wheat, rice, soybeans, and feed peas, has not disclosed the cause of the labeling error, and no illnesses have been reported as of August 3, 2025.

Health Risks of Undeclared Milk

Milk is one of the nine major allergens mandated for clear labeling under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA). The FDA notes that milk allergies, prevalent in 6.2 million Americans, particularly children, can trigger reactions ranging from mild hives, vomiting, or lip swelling to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Dr. Sebastian Lighvani, a New York allergist, told Newsweek, “Every three minutes in the US, someone lands in the emergency room due to food-related allergic reactions.” Anaphylaxis, a severe immune response, can cause throat swelling, difficulty breathing, and shock, requiring immediate epinephrine and medical attention.

Unlike lactose intolerance, which causes digestive discomfort, milk allergies involve an immune response to milk proteins, making accurate labeling critical. The FDA’s Class II designation indicates a moderate risk, but for allergic individuals, even small exposures can be dangerous. In 2023, the FDA reported 32 recalls for undeclared milk, making it the third most common allergen-related recall after wheat and soy.

Details of the Recalled Product

The NH European Style Butter Blend, described on Bunge’s website as having higher oil content than traditional margarines for enhanced flavor, is used in food manufacturing and professional kitchens. The recalled product is identified by:

• Product: NH European Style Butter Blend, 1-pound blocks
• UPC Code: 1 00 78684 73961 2
• Lot Code: 5064036503
• Packaging: White paperboard cases, 36 blocks per case
• Distribution: 12 U.S. centers and one in the Dominican Republic

Consumers, particularly those with milk allergies, are urged to check for the affected lot and dispose of or return the product for a refund. The FDA advises immediate cessation of consumption and, if allergic symptoms like swelling, hives, or breathing difficulties occur, to use emergency medication (e.g., epinephrine) and seek medical care. Surfaces that may have contacted the product should be sanitized to prevent cross-contamination.

Broader Context and Industry Challenges

The recall is part of a wave of recent food safety issues, including a July 2025 recall of High Noon Vodka Seltzer mislabeled as non-alcoholic energy drinks and a tuna salad recall for Listeria contamination. Milk’s frequent role in allergen-related recalls—often due to labeling errors—underscores persistent supply chain oversight issues. The FDA enforces strict labeling requirements under FALCPA, and violations can lead to fines or regulatory scrutiny. Bunge is reportedly reviewing its quality control processes to prevent future lapses.

The recall’s timing, during peak summer demand for butter in baking and foodservice, may strain supplies, particularly for distributors like Walmart and Kroger, though specific affected states remain undisclosed. The logistics of recalling 64,800 pounds across 13 distribution centers highlight the complexity of tracking bulk products in institutional markets.

Consumer and Industry Implications

For consumers with milk allergies, the recall emphasizes the importance of checking lot codes and staying updated via the FDA’s recall page. Foodservice operators, such as restaurants and bakeries, must ensure the recalled butter is removed from use to avoid liability. The absence of reported illnesses is reassuring, but the FDA’s ongoing investigation suggests continued vigilance is needed.

For Bunge North America, the incident risks reputational damage in the competitive agribusiness sector. Transparent communication and corrective measures, such as enhanced labeling audits, are critical to restoring trust. The recall also highlights the broader challenge of allergen management in complex supply chains, where products are processed and repackaged before reaching consumers.

What to Do Next

Consumers should:

1. Check Products: Look for UPC code 1 00 78684 73961 2 and lot code 5064036503 in pantries or commercial kitchens.
2. Dispose or Return: Discard the product or return it to the point of sale for a refund.
3. Monitor Symptoms: If consumed and allergic symptoms appear, use epinephrine if prescribed and seek immediate medical attention.
4. Stay Informed: Follow FDA updates at www.fda.gov or via @FDArecalls on X.

The FDA and Bunge North America continue to coordinate to ensure all affected units are removed from circulation. As food allergies remain a significant public health concern, this recall serves as a reminder of the critical need for rigorous labeling standards to protect vulnerable consumers.