Multiple Brands Issued Walnut Recalls in 2024 and 2025
The question, “what brand of walnuts were recalled?”, does not have a single answer, as multiple companies have issued recalls in recent years for different reasons. This can create confusion for consumers attempting to verify the safety of products in their pantries. The following sections detail the most significant walnut-related recalls from 2024 and 2025, covering the brand, the reason for the recall, and specific identifiers for the affected products.
Gibson Farms Bulk Organic Walnuts (April 2024)
In April 2024, Gibson Farms, Inc., a California-based company, initiated a voluntary recall of its organic light halves and pieces of shelled walnuts. The recall followed a multistate E. coli O157:H7 outbreak linked to the products. The walnuts were primarily sold in bulk bins at natural food and co-op stores across at least 19 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) closed the outbreak investigation in July 2024, reporting 13 cases in two states. Seven people were hospitalized, with no reported deaths.
Affected Product Details:
- Product: Organic Light Halves and Pieces Shelled Walnuts
- Contaminant: E. coli O157:H7
- Lot Codes: 3325-043 and 3341-501
- Expiration Dates: May 21, 2025, and June 7, 2025
- Distribution: Sold in bulk bins at various natural food and co-op stores, including select Whole Foods and Natural Grocers.
Stutz Packing Co. Shelled Walnuts (July 2024)
In July 2024, Stutz Packing Company of Indio, California, recalled 1-pound packages of Shelled Walnuts due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall was triggered by routine product testing that detected the bacteria. Listeria infection, also known as listeriosis, can cause serious, sometimes fatal, infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. The FDA classified this as a Class I recall, the highest risk level.
Affected Product Details:
- Product: 1-pound Shelled Walnuts in clear plastic packaging with a red-outlined white box
- Contaminant: Listeria monocytogenes
- UPC Code: 7 15001 00908 1
- Lot Codes: 24171 1 and 24172 1
- Distribution: Confined to food bank warehouses in Arizona and Texas, but some may have entered retail stores.
Emerald Kettle Glazed Walnuts (August 2024)
Manufacturer Flagstone Foods LLC initiated a voluntary recall in August 2024 for a limited number of Emerald brand Kettle Glazed Walnuts. The recall was prompted by consumers finding undeclared peanuts, almonds, and pecans in packages labeled as walnuts. This recall was classified as a Class II severity by the FDA, signifying a low probability of serious health consequences but a risk for those with nut allergies. The best-by date and lot number were crucial for identifying the recalled product.
Affected Product Details:
- Product: 6.5 oz. Emerald Kettle Glazed Walnuts
- Issue: Undeclared peanuts, almonds, and pecans
- Lot Code: 2EE06284
- Best by Date: June 28, 2025
- Distribution: Sold at various retailers, including Publix stores.
Comparison of Major Walnut Recalls (2024-2025)
| Brand | Contaminant/Issue | Recall Date | Affected Product | Hazard Level | Distribution | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gibson Farms | E. coli O157:H7 | April 2024 | Organic Light Halves and Pieces Shelled Walnuts (bulk) | Class I | Natural food/co-op stores in 19 states | Closed |
| Stutz Packing Co. | Listeria monocytogenes | July 2024 | 1-pound Shelled Walnuts | Class I | Food banks in AZ, TX (potential retail) | Ongoing |
| Emerald (Flagstone Foods) | Undeclared Allergens | August 2024 | 6.5 oz. Kettle Glazed Walnuts | Class II | Various retailers, incl. Publix | Ongoing |
What to Do If You Have Recalled Walnuts
If you have purchased walnuts recently, it is crucial to take the following steps to ensure your safety:
- Check Recall Details: Compare any walnuts you have with the brand, lot number, UPC code, and best-by date provided in official recall notices. The FDA and CDC websites are reliable sources for this information.
- Dispose of or Return: Do not consume or use any product identified as recalled. The safest action is to either throw the walnuts away or return them to the store where you purchased them for a full refund.
- Sanitize All Surfaces: If the recalled walnuts came into contact with any kitchen surfaces, storage containers, or utensils, thoroughly wash and sanitize them using hot, soapy water. This helps prevent cross-contamination. For bulk items, retailers were advised to sanitize bins before refilling.
- Monitor for Symptoms: After consuming walnuts that may be part of a recall, watch for symptoms of foodborne illness. Common symptoms of E. coli include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Listeria can cause fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. If you experience any symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
- Contact the Store: If you purchased bulk walnuts from a co-op or natural food store, contact the retailer and ask if they received any of the recalled lots from suppliers like Gibson Farms.
The Importance of Staying Informed
The various walnut recalls of 2024 demonstrate that food safety issues are not confined to a single brand or type of contamination. From bacterial contamination (E. coli, Listeria) to undeclared allergens, different hazards necessitate consumer awareness. Recalls may involve well-known brands like Emerald, specialty suppliers like Gibson Farms, or products distributed to institutional settings by Stutz Packing. Staying vigilant requires consumers to check multiple sources and always verify recall information against the products in their possession. Following official guidance from agencies like the FDA and CDC is the most reliable way to protect yourself and your family.
For the latest information on all food-related recalls and alerts, including walnuts, you can consult the official U.S. Food and Drug Administration website. FDA Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts
