Hot Pockets, the convenient and popular frozen snack, has been a staple in many households for decades. However, over the years, there have been several instances where Hot Pockets have been recalled due to safety concerns. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of what kind of Hot Pockets have been recalled, the reasons behind these recalls, and what you can do to ensure your safety.
The History of Hot Pockets Recalls
Hot Pockets, manufactured by Nestle, have been on the market since the 1980s. While they have been a beloved snack for many, there have been several instances where they have been recalled due to contamination, mislabeling, and other safety issues. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable Hot Pockets recalls in recent history.
2002: E. Coli Contamination
One of the most serious Hot Pockets recalls occurred in 2002, when the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced a recall of over 100,000 pounds of Hot Pockets due to E. coli contamination. The affected products were four-ounce, 12-count packages of Hot Pockets Pepperoni Pizza, with a “Best If Used By” date of March 2002. The recall was initiated after several consumers reported falling ill with E. coli infections, which were eventually linked to the consumption of Hot Pockets.
2007: Undeclared Allergens
In 2007, Nestle voluntary recalled over 200,000 pounds of Hot Pockets due to undeclared allergens. The affected products were four-ounce, 12-count packages of Hot Pockets Ham and Cheese, which contained milk and eggs, but failed to declare these allergens on the label. The recall was initiated after a consumer complaint, and no illnesses were reported.
2014: Glass Particles
In 2014, Nestle recalled over 250,000 pounds of Hot Pockets due to the presence of glass particles. The affected products were four-ounce, 12-count packages of Hot Pockets Philly Steak and Cheese, with a “Best By” date of March 2014. The recall was initiated after a consumer reported finding glass particles in a Hot Pocket.
Recent Recalls: What You Need to Know
In recent years, there have been several Hot Pockets recalls that are still relevant today. Let’s take a look at the details of these recalls and what you can do to ensure your safety.
2020: Pepperoni Hot Pockets Recall
In January 2020, Nestle recalled over 76,000 pounds of Hot Pockets due to misbranding. The affected products were four-ounce, 12-count packages of Hot Pockets Pepperoni Pizza, which contained undeclared soy and beef products. The recall was initiated after a consumer complaint, and no illnesses were reported.
What to Look For
If you purchased Hot Pockets during this time period, make sure to check your freezer for the following products:
- Hot Pockets Pepperoni Pizza, UPC Code: 0 32254 02255 9
- Hot Pockets Pepperoni Pizza, UPC Code: 0 32254 02254 2
2020: Ham and Cheese Hot Pockets Recall
In March 2020, Nestle recalled over 15,000 pounds of Hot Pockets due to contamination with extraneous material. The affected products were four-ounce, 12-count packages of Hot Pockets Ham and Cheese, which may have contained small pieces of glass or hard plastic. The recall was initiated after a consumer reported finding a small piece of glass in a Hot Pocket.
What to Look For
If you purchased Hot Pockets during this time period, make sure to check your freezer for the following products:
- Hot Pockets Ham and Cheese, UPC Code: 0 32254 02256 6
- Hot Pockets Ham and Cheese, UPC Code: 0 32254 02257 3
What to Do If You’ve Purchased Recalled Hot Pockets
If you’ve purchased Hot Pockets that have been recalled, there are several steps you can take to ensure your safety.
Return or Discard the Product
If you’ve purchased recalled Hot Pockets, return them to the place of purchase for a full refund or discard them immediately. Do not consume recalled Hot Pockets, as they may pose a serious health risk.
Check Your Freezer
Check your freezer for any recalled Hot Pockets and remove them immediately. Make sure to check the UPC code and “Best By” date to ensure that the product is indeed recalled.
Contact Nestle
If you have any questions or concerns about recalled Hot Pockets, contact Nestle’s consumer service department at (800) 851-2131.
Conclusion
While Hot Pockets have been a convenient and beloved snack for many, it’s essential to stay informed about recalls and safety concerns. By being aware of the types of Hot Pockets that have been recalled and taking steps to ensure your safety, you can enjoy this popular snack with confidence. Remember, always check your freezer for recalled products, and if you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and discard the product.
What is the reason for the Hot Pocket recall?
The recall of Hot Pockets is due to the potential contamination of glass fragments and hard plastic in the products. This contamination can cause physical harm, including oral injury, and can also lead to digestive problems if ingested. The recall is a precautionary measure to ensure consumer safety and prevent any potential harm.
The affected Hot Pockets were produced between November 13, 2020, and February 16, 2021, and were distributed to retailers nationwide. The recalled products include several varieties of Hot Pockets, including pepperoni, ham and cheese, and chicken brocoli and cheese. Consumers are advised to check their freezers for the recalled products and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
What are the specific Hot Pocket products being recalled?
The recall affects several specific Hot Pocket products, including 54-ounce packages of 12-count Hot Pockets Pepperoni Pizza, 54-ounce packages of 12-count Hot Pockets Ham and Cheese, and 54-ounce packages of 12-count Hot Pockets Chicken Broccoli and Cheese. The products have a “Best Before” date ranging from February 2022 to September 2022.
Consumers can identify the recalled products by checking the packaging for the specific UPC code and “Best Before” date. The UPC codes for the recalled products are 0-37250-05246-4, 0-37250-05248-8, and 0-37250-05249-5. Consumers who have purchased the recalled products should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
What should I do if I’ve already consumed a recalled Hot Pocket?
If you have already consumed a recalled Hot Pocket, do not panic. However, if you experience any symptoms such as mouth injuries, difficulty swallowing, or stomach pain, seek medical attention immediately. If you have ingested glass fragments or hard plastic, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
It is also important to retain the packaging and any remaining uneaten portions of the recalled Hot Pocket as evidence. This will be useful in case you need to provide proof of purchase or if you need to seek medical attention. Additionally, contact the manufacturer or the retailer where you purchased the product for further guidance.
How do I get a refund for the recalled Hot Pockets?
To get a refund for the recalled Hot Pockets, consumers should return the products to the place of purchase. Bring the recalled products, along with the packaging and proof of purchase, to the retailer where you bought them. The retailer will provide a full refund for the recalled products.
Consumers who have thrown away the packaging or proof of purchase may still be eligible for a refund. Contact the manufacturer or the retailer for further guidance on how to proceed. The manufacturer is committed to ensuring consumer safety and providing a full refund for the recalled products.
Are other Hot Pocket products affected by the recall?
No, only the specific Hot Pocket products mentioned above are affected by the recall. Other Hot Pocket products, including varieties such as cheese, sausage, and veggie, are not affected by the recall. Consumers can continue to consume these products without any concerns.
However, it is always a good idea to check the packaging and “Best Before” date of any Hot Pocket product before consuming it. If you have any concerns or doubts, contact the manufacturer or the retailer for further guidance.
How long will the recall last?
The recall will last until all the affected Hot Pocket products have been removed from the market and returned to the manufacturer. The manufacturer is working closely with retailers and regulatory authorities to ensure a swift and efficient recall process.
Consumers are advised to continue checking their freezers for the recalled products and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. The manufacturer will provide updates on the recall process and any further actions that consumers need to take.
What is the manufacturer doing to prevent future recalls?
The manufacturer is taking immediate action to correct the issue that led to the recall. A thorough investigation is being conducted to identify the root cause of the contamination, and measures are being implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The manufacturer is also working to improve its quality control processes and enhance its product testing protocols to ensure that all Hot Pocket products meet the highest standards of quality and safety. The manufacturer is committed to providing safe and high-quality products to consumers and regrets any inconvenience caused by the recall.