Life-Threatening Allergen Prompts Raisin Recall In NJ, NY And PA

PATERSON, NJ — Hundreds of packages of raisins distributed in stores in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York have been recalled because they may contain sulfites without a warning on the package, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said in a news release Tuesday.

The recall, issued by the company that produces the raisins, USA Hookah, LLC dba Eltahan of Paterson, is due to the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions in people who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to sulfites and unknowingly consume them, officials said.

The Eltahan Golden Raisins that have been recalled are packaged in a 400-gram, clear plastic package, and are marked with UPC 2337660022, officials said. The product is labeled with a production date of January 2023 and a best-by date of January 20, 2026, which can be found on the bottom right side of the front label.

No illnesses had been reported as of Tuesday.

The recall was initiated after routine sampling by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets found sulfites in the product "which was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of sulfites," officials said.

Officials added that an investigation indicates that the problem was due to "a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes."

Production and distribution of the product have been suspended until officials are able to confirm that the issue has been resolved.

Officials are urging anyone who purchased the raisins to return them to the place of purchase for a refund.

The company noted that questions may be directed to info@eltahan.com.