TreeHouse Foods, the manufacturer of Walmart’s Great Value chicken broth that is currently part of a recall, has attributed the issue to an internal procedural error that has since been corrected, rather than a fault in the packaging materials. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on December 11 that the recall was initiated due to the potential for packaging failures that could compromise the sterility of the product, leading to spoilage. The recall covers 2,023 cases, totaling more than 12,100 cartons of the affected product, which were sold in nine states. Tetra Pak, the supplier of the aseptic cartons for the broth, has stated that they are aware of the recall but have not encountered any procedural issues specific to their operations.
Demand for private label food products has been on the rise in recent years due to inflation concerns, with private label sales reaching a record high of $271 billion in 2024. TreeHouse Foods, as the largest pure-play private label manufacturer in the United States, serves various retailers including Walmart, Aldi, Amazon, Costco, Kroger, and Target. However, the company has faced recalls in the past, including a bone broth recall in 2023 that resulted in an 8% drop in fourth-quarter sales. Recalls in the food industry are typically not caused by packaging-related issues, according to industry experts.
The voluntary recall of the Great Value broth by TreeHouse highlights the importance of food safety and quality in the industry. While the company describes the recall as “very small” and a routine occurrence during production, it is crucial for manufacturers to address any deviations that may impact product safety. Tetra Pak also emphasized their commitment to food safety and quality, stating that they cooperate fully in reviews and investigations related to the recall.
George Misko, a senior partner at Keller & Heckman specializing in FDA regulations, noted that packaging-related recalls are rare in the industry. The FDA’s notification of the TreeHouse recall as “unclassified” indicates that the agency is still investigating the issue, but it is unlikely to pose a serious threat to public health. Misko explained the FDA’s three-tiered recall system, with Class One recalls signifying a significant health risk, while Class Two and Class Three recalls indicate lesser degrees of severity.
As the number of food recalls continues to rise, companies and regulators are placing greater emphasis on traceability and communication to ensure public safety. Improved communication channels have led to increased awareness of even minor recalls that may have gone unnoticed in the past. With food safety becoming a prominent concern, both companies and consumers are more vigilant about product recalls in the industry.
In conclusion, the TreeHouse Foods recall serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strict quality control measures in food production. While recalls are a common occurrence in the industry, it is essential for manufacturers to address any issues promptly to ensure consumer safety. By adhering to FDA regulations and implementing robust quality assurance practices, companies can minimize the risk of recalls and maintain consumer trust in their products.
