Two Separate Recalls Explain Why Are Kodiak Protein Waffles Recalled
Consumers were alerted to two separate food safety events concerning Kodiak's frozen waffle products in the second half of 2024. The first was a recall in September involving potential plastic film contamination, followed by a broader recall in October due to the risk of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. Both incidents highlight the importance of supply chain oversight and the serious nature of food product recalls.
The September Plastic Film Contamination Recall
In a recall announced in September 2024, Kodiak Cakes, LLC, recalled certain boxes of its 40-count Kodiak Power Waffles Buttermilk & Vanilla sold exclusively at Costco in the Midwest region. The issue was the potential presence of soft plastic film within the waffle product. While no injuries were reported, the company took proactive measures to ensure consumer safety. Ingesting foreign objects like plastic poses a choking hazard and can lead to gastrointestinal issues, making it a serious food safety matter.
Affected Products from the Plastic Recall:
- Kodiak Power Waffles Buttermilk & Vanilla, 40-count boxes
- Specific lot code: 24193-WL4
- Use-by date: January 10, 2026
- Sold between July 15 and August 25, 2024, at Costco locations in several Midwestern states
The October Listeria Contamination Recall
Just weeks after the plastic incident, Kodiak was affected by a more extensive recall, this time due to the risk of Listeria monocytogenes. The contamination was traced back to Kodiak's contract manufacturer, TreeHouse Foods, Inc., which also produced waffles for several other brands. Routine testing at the TreeHouse facility discovered the bacteria, leading to a large-scale, voluntary recall.
Listeria is a dangerous bacteria that can cause serious, sometimes fatal, infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems. While no illnesses were confirmed in relation to the recalled Kodiak products, the risk is significant enough to warrant immediate action.
Affected Products from the Listeria Recall:
- Kodiak Frozen Waffles (various flavors including Buttermilk & Vanilla, Chocolate Chip, Dark Chocolate)
- Kodiak Thick and Fluffy Power Waffles (various flavors)
- Kodiak Cubs Adventure Waffles (various flavors)
- This recall was later expanded to include more products.
Comparing the Two Kodiak Waffle Recalls
| Aspect | September Plastic Film Recall | October Listeria Contamination Recall |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Potential contamination with soft plastic film | Potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria |
| Manufacturer | Kodiak Cakes, LLC | Contract manufacturer, TreeHouse Foods, Inc. |
| Scope | Limited to a specific product batch (40-count buttermilk) sold at Costco in the Midwest | Widespread, affecting multiple Kodiak frozen waffle varieties and other brands from the same facility |
| Health Risk | Choking hazard, potential for gastrointestinal issues | Serious, potentially fatal infections, particularly for high-risk groups |
| Illnesses Reported | None reported | None confirmed at the time of the recall |
| Consumer Action | Return product to Costco for a refund | Dispose of or return product to the place of purchase for credit |
Nutritional and Food Safety Considerations for Consumers
These recalls underscore the importance of being a vigilant and informed consumer. While companies like Kodiak generally prioritize product safety, issues can arise, particularly when using contract manufacturers. From a nutritional standpoint, products like protein waffles offer convenience and a quick boost of nutrients, but relying on them as a primary source of protein or other nutrients is not always the best strategy. Diversifying your diet with whole foods is always a solid nutritional choice.
Following a product recall, it is crucial to take the specified action, which usually involves discarding the product or returning it for a refund. Relying on heating the frozen product may not always eliminate risks. For example, while heating food to 165°F can kill Listeria, cross-contamination risks in your freezer or kitchen can remain.
To ensure food safety, consider these points:
- Verify Recalls: Always check recall notices carefully, using the UPC and lot codes provided. Do not assume all products from a brand are affected.
- Handle Contaminated Food Carefully: If you have a recalled product, dispose of it properly to prevent contamination of other foods in your freezer or pantry.
- Diversify Food Sources: A varied diet from different brands and food types reduces dependency on a single product that could be recalled.
- Maintain Kitchen Hygiene: Always follow proper food handling and storage procedures, especially with frozen and perishable items.
These events, though concerning, serve as a reminder that food safety is a continuous process. Kodiak has stated that the quality and integrity of their products are their top priority and that the recalls were handled in cooperation with the FDA and CFIA. While it can be disappointing to see a favorite product recalled, these measures are essential for public health.
Conclusion: Consumer Awareness is Key
The question of why are Kodiak protein waffles recalled? is answered by two distinct events in 2024: a plastic film contamination at one facility and a Listeria scare at a different contract manufacturing site. Both incidents prompted voluntary recalls to protect consumers from potential harm, underscoring the critical nature of food safety protocols in the food industry. As Kodiak and its manufacturing partners address these issues, consumers are reminded to stay vigilant, check recall notifications, and properly handle or dispose of affected products. The ultimate takeaway is that no matter how trusted a brand, food safety is a shared responsibility that requires both manufacturer diligence and consumer awareness.
For more information on food recalls, you can visit the FDA's official recall page.
