Goodles Mac & Cheese Recall: Undeclared Milk and Cashew Risk Consumers Nationwide
A widespread recall affects two popular Goodles mac and cheese flavors after allergen labeling errors put consumers with milk or cashew allergies at risk.
Nationwide Goodles Mac & Cheese Recall: What You Need to Know
In early August 2025, Gooder Foods, Inc.—makers of the popular Goodles brand of boxed macaroni and cheese—initiated a nationwide recall for select flavors due to undeclared milk and cashew allergens. This urgent action comes after eight reported allergic reactions and affects products sold at major national retailers, raising concerns for consumers with food allergies across the United States.
Table of Contents
- Background on the Recall
- Affected Products, Lot Codes, & Dates
- Why the Recall Was Issued
- Health Risks of Undeclared Allergens
- What to Do If You Have Affected Products
- Goodles and FDA Response
- Retailers and Distribution Timeline
- Consumer Safety Advice
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Background on the Recall
On September 10, 2025, Gooder Foods, Inc. issued a voluntary recall for two boxed mac & cheese varieties: “Vegan Is Believin’ Plant-Based White Cheddar with Spirals” and “Here Comes Truffle Creamy Truffle Flavored Cheddar with Shells.” The FDA and Gooder Foods confirmed the products may contain milk or cashew allergens, which are not listed on the packaging.
The undeclared allergens present a serious risk for anyone with milk or tree-nut (cashew) allergies—prompting swift action from the company, FDA, and retail partners.
Affected Products, Lot Codes, & Dates
The recall specifically targets certain lot codes and best-by dates of the two Goodles flavors, impacting products produced between April 7 and April 15, 2025, and sold nationwide from April 29 through early August 2025.
| Product Name | Flavor / Variety | Size | Lot Codes | Best-By Dates | UPC Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goodles Vegan Is Believin’ | Plant-Based White Cheddar with Spirals | 5.25 oz | 09725N, 09825N, 09925N, 10025N, 10125N | Jul-7-2026 to Jul-11-2026 | 850031990074 |
| Goodles Here Comes Truffle | Creamy Truffle Flavored Cheddar & Shells | 6 oz | 10125N, 10425N, 10525N | Jul-11-2026, Jul-14-2026, Jul-15-2026 | 850031990159 |
- Customers should check the flavor, lot code, best-by date, and UPC found on the box’s side panel before consuming.
- If it matches any of the above, the product should not be eaten.
Why the Recall Was Issued
The recall stemmed from a labeling mix-up: specific boxes of plant-based white cheddar may inadvertently contain milk, while certain truffle cheddar and shells boxes may contain cashew, neither of which are specified on the packaging.
- Milk is a common allergen and must be declared on food products under US law.
- Cashew, a tree nut, is also among the top eight allergens requiring mandatory labeling.
The issue came to light following consumer feedback and reports of adverse allergic reactions — with a total of eight cases identified as of the recall date. Additional investigation and supply chain review by Goodles led to the identification of the affected lots.
Health Risks of Undeclared Allergens
Consuming foods that contain undeclared milk or nuts can lead to allergic reactions of varying severity. Symptoms described in consumer reports include:
- Skin reactions: hives, rashes, or itching
- Gastrointestinal: vomiting, abdominal cramps, or diarrhea
- Respiratory: trouble breathing, coughing, throat swelling
- Neurological: dizziness, fainting or confusion
- Severe cases: anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention (call 911)
According to reports, there have been six allergic reactions linked to Here Comes Truffle (exposure to cashew) and two associated with Vegan Is Believin’ (milk exposure). Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported, but the potential for escalation underscores the seriousness of the recall.
What to Do If You Have Affected Products
If you have purchased either of the recalled flavors and the product falls within the specified lot codes and dates:
- Do not eat the product.
- Dispose of it safely, or return to the retailer for a full refund.
- Keep the package (and receipt, if possible) for returns or reference.
- If you have questions, contact Gooder Foods customer service weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET at 1-888-610-2341.
If you or someone in your household experiences symptoms of an allergic reaction after consuming an affected product, seek medical advice immediately. In the event of a severe reaction (anaphylaxis), dial emergency services.
Goodles and FDA Response
Gooder Foods, Inc. has acted promptly upon discovering the issue, recalling affected products, and working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to notify consumers, distributors, and retail partners nationwide.
- The recall was voluntary and done with the knowledge and oversight of the FDA.
- The company notified all distributors and retailers who received the impacted lots and is conducting outreach to consumers through online announcements and in-store notifications where applicable.
The source of the allergen contamination is under internal investigation, with emphasis on preventing future lapses in allergen labeling and cross-contamination.
Retailers and Distribution Timeline
The affected Goodles mac and cheese products were distributed extensively, both online and at major national retailers, between April 29 and August 5 or 8, 2025 (sources differ by one day, possibly depending on location). Key details:
- Retailers: Notable stores include Sprouts, Target, Walmart, Whole Foods, various regional grocers, and assorted online marketplaces.
- Distribution dates: The lot codes in question entered the market after April 29, 2025, and were actively sold through early August 2025.
- Production window: April 7 to April 15, 2025, for the affected lots.
Given the extensive reach, thousands of boxes may be impacted. The company urges all consumers who purchased these specific flavors to verify lot and UPC codes before consumption.
Consumer Safety Advice
For consumers with allergies—whether personal, family, or household—choosing allergy-safe foods is critical. Key points in light of the Goodles recall:
- Always examine ingredient lists for allergens, especially when trying new flavors or brands.
- Check recall notices from manufacturers and major food safety authorities like the FDA.
- Be prepared: Keep epinephrine auto-injectors available if you or someone close has a history of severe reactions.
- If uncertain about the allergen status of a product, err on the side of caution and do not consume.
The FDA maintains up-to-date recall data and provides guidance to help identify affected products. Consumers can sign up for email alerts regarding new recalls on FDA’s official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How can I identify if my Goodles mac & cheese is part of the recall?
A: Check the flavor, lot code, best-by date, and UPC code on the side panel of the box. If these match any of the details listed in the recall notice or tables above, the box must not be consumed.
Q: What allergic reactions should I look for if someone has eaten an affected product?
A: Symptoms may include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, vomiting, dizziness, or, rarely, anaphylaxis. If a severe symptom appears, call 911 or seek medical attention at once.
Q: What should I do with recalled product if I have it at home?
A: Do not eat it. Either dispose of it safely or return it to the store where you purchased it for a refund. For further assistance, contact Gooder Foods customer service at 1-888-610-2341 (M–F, 8am–8pm ET).
Q: Why are undeclared allergens so dangerous?
A: Even trace amounts of undeclared allergens like milk or cashew can trigger severe, life-threatening reactions in susceptible individuals. That’s why strict labeling standards are enforced and why recalls like these are taken extremely seriously.
Q: Which stores sold the recalled Goodles mac and cheese?
A: The recalled boxes were widely available at major national chains including Target, Walmart, Sprouts, Whole Foods, online retailers, and various groceries across the US between late April and early August 2025.
Summary: Stay Safe, Stay Informed
The Goodles mac and cheese recall over undeclared milk and cashew allergens highlights a critical issue facing today’s busy shoppers: the need for vigilance about food labeling and recalls. Always check product information and official recall notices—especially if you live with food allergies. Never hesitate to contact the company or authorities for verification, and report any adverse effects after consumption of recalled items.
