Deadly Dried Apricots Recalled Across 19 States Over Hidden Allergen Risk
Health officials are urgently warning consumers to steer clear of a popular dried fruit sold in nearly 20 states after it was found to contain potentially dangerous levels of undeclared sulfites — a chemical that can trigger severe allergic reactions in some individuals.
The FDA has issued a recall for Floria Dried Apricots sold by Turkana Food Inc., with an expiration date of November 2026, urging people to stop consuming the product immediately and return it to the store for a full refund.
Sulfites — preservatives commonly used in items like wine, dried fruit, and processed foods — are generally safe for most. But for millions of Americans, especially those with asthma, sulfite exposure can cause reactions ranging from skin rashes and digestive issues to life-threatening breathing difficulties.
According to federal regulations, any product containing more than 10 parts per million (ppm) of sulfites must include a warning label. However, during a routine inspection, the New York State Department of Agriculture discovered that Turkana’s packaging failed to declare the presence of sulfites — putting unsuspecting customers at risk.
So far, no illnesses have been reported, but the product has already made its way onto store shelves in Florida, Kentucky, Virginia, New York, New Jersey, Tennessee, Massachusetts, Texas, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Maryland, Ohio, Alabama, Missouri, and California.
Here’s how to check if you’ve purchased the recalled apricots:
- Lot number: 440090478-15-333 (printed on the bottom of the package)
- UPC: 2539560010 (on a sticker at the top of the packaging)
Though Turkana Food Inc. has yet to issue a public statement, the FDA is urging extreme caution. Sulfite sensitivity affects an estimated 13 million Americans, and symptoms can appear quickly after ingestion, including:
- Wheezing and shortness of breath
- Hives or swelling
- Chest tightness and coughing
- Nausea, stomach pain, or diarrhea
In extreme cases, exposure can trigger anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition requiring emergency treatment.
The controversy comes just weeks after another labeling mishap prompted the recall of Texas Pete’s Habanero Buffalo hot sauce — which turned out to contain Sriracha, a product that also may contain undeclared sulfites.
If you or someone in your family has a sulfite sensitivity, make sure to double-check labels, return the affected product, and consult your healthcare provider if any symptoms appear.
