The 2023-2024 Salmonella Recall Explained
In late 2023 and early 2024, The Quaker Oats Company conducted a voluntary recall of numerous products across the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam, and Saipan due to potential Salmonella contamination. This bacterium can cause serious illness, particularly in vulnerable populations. The recall primarily involved granola bars and granola cereals, including items from the Quaker Chewy Granola Bars, Quaker Simply Granola, Quaker Puffed Granola lines, and some variety packs.
Impact on Production
The production plant in Danville, IL, linked to the contamination issues was closed by PepsiCo in April 2024. A class-action settlement regarding the failure to warn consumers about contamination risk was preliminarily approved in May 2025.
What the Salmonella Recall Did Not Affect
It's important to note that the salmonella recall did not include standard Quaker Oats (Old Fashioned, Quick, and Instant), Quaker Grits, Quaker Oat Bran, Quaker Oat Flour, or Quaker Rice Snacks.
Recent 2025 Recall: Pearl Milling Company Pancake Mix
As of October 2025, there is no current cereal recall. However, in February 2025, Quaker's sister brand, Pearl Milling Company, recalled specific 2-pound boxes of their Original Pancake & Waffle Mix due to an undeclared milk allergen. The affected products had a best-by date of Sept. 13, 2025, and were distributed in 11 states: Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, Utah, and Wisconsin. This was a separate incident from the earlier salmonella recall and did not involve any Quaker Oats branded cereals.
Comparison of Recent Quaker-Related Recalls
| Aspect | 2023-2024 Salmonella Recall | 2025 Pearl Milling Mix Recall |
|---|---|---|
| Reason | Potential Salmonella contamination | Undeclared milk allergen |
| Affected Products | Dozens of Quaker granola bars, granola cereals, and variety packs | Limited 2-pound boxes of Original Pancake & Waffle Mix |
| Distribution | Nationwide in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam, and Saipan | 11 specific states in the U.S. |
| Illnesses Reported | No confirmed reports at the time of the recall | No allergic reactions reported at the time |
| Resolution | Reimbursement program; plant closure | Reimbursement and disposal for affected consumers |
What to Do If You Have a Recalled Product
If you have a product potentially affected by a recent Quaker-related recall, check for specific product details, including best-by dates and batch codes, as outlined in the recall notices. Dispose of any recalled items immediately and do not consume them. You can contact Quaker Consumer Relations or visit the official Quaker recall website (www.QuakerRecallUSA.com for the 2023-2024 recall) to seek reimbursement or get more information.
Concerning Pesticide: Chlormequat
Separate from official recalls, concerns have been raised about the presence of the pesticide chlormequat in Quaker oat products. In early 2024, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) detected this chemical in several oat-based foods, including Quaker Oats. Animal studies suggest links between chlormequat and reproductive and developmental issues. The chemical is not approved for use on U.S. food crops but can be present in imported oats. A class-action lawsuit filed in February 2024 alleges Quaker failed to warn consumers about high chlormequat levels. While levels detected were within EPA limits and did not trigger a recall, the EWG recommends choosing organic oats to potentially reduce exposure.
What Happens After a Food Recall?
After a food recall, companies and regulatory bodies like the FDA investigate the cause, notify the public, and provide support for affected consumers, often through helplines and websites for reimbursement. Companies also typically implement enhanced safety protocols to prevent future incidents.
Conclusion
As of October 2025, there is no active recall on Quaker Oats cereal. However, consumers should be aware of past recalls for other Quaker products, notably the 2023-2024 salmonella recall affecting granola bars and certain granola cereals, and the 2025 Pearl Milling Company pancake mix recall due to an undeclared milk allergen. Additionally, concerns about the pesticide chlormequat in Quaker oat products have been raised by watchdog groups. Staying informed through official sources like the FDA and checking product details are essential steps for consumer safety.
Why it’s important to stay informed about recalls
Staying informed about food recalls is vital for health. Recalls remove potentially harmful products from the market due to issues like bacterial contamination (e.g., Salmonella), undeclared allergens (e.g., milk), physical contaminants, or mislabeling. Checking official sources like the FDA and company websites helps ensure food safety.
Final Recommendations
Consumers should check specific product details, not just the brand name, when considering recalls. If you have products from the time of the 2023-2024 salmonella recall or the 2025 pancake mix recall, check batch codes and best-by dates. Those concerned about chlormequat may consider organic oats. Staying updated on food safety alerts from official sources is crucial.
