Western Mixers Produce & Nuts Inc., based in Ontario, California, is recalling yogurt-covered pretzels due to salmonella contamination detected in the yogurt coating. The affected products were distributed across California and sold at various retailers including Smart & Final, Gelson's Markets, Thorp Fruit, and Down Home Goods. The products are branded as First Street at Smart & Final and as Gelson's Markets' store brand. They are available in bulk at Down Home Goods and Thorp Fruit.
The contamination was discovered through routine sampling, and the recall was announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). As of now, no illnesses have been reported related to the recall. The FDA advises consumers to dispose of any yogurt-covered pretzels purchased from these retailers.
The production of these pretzels has been halted while the FDA and Western Mixers Produce & Nuts Inc. investigate the source of the contamination. This recall comes shortly after a similar incident on May 5, 2024, involving Palmer Candy in Iowa, which recalled white-coated confectionery goods nationwide due to potential salmonella contamination from an ingredient supplied by their coating supplier.
Consumption of products contaminated with salmonella can lead to serious health issues, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Typical symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and stomach cramps, with illnesses generally lasting from four to seven days.