KraftHeinz is recalling approximately 83,000 boxes of its individually wrapped American Kraft Singles cheese because they could pose a choking hazard.
The company said in a statement that a “temporary issue” with one of its wrapping machines means that “a thin strip of the individual film may remain on the slice after the wrapper is removed.” If not removed, it “may be unpleasant and may pose a risk of gagging or choking.”
Kraft said it issued a recall after “several” customer complaints about finding the piece of plastic on its cheese, including six complaints from eaters choking or gagging on it. No injuries or health problems have been reported and the faulty machine has now been repaired.
The issue affects two types of packages, including 16-ounce “Kraft Singles American Pasteurized Prepared Cheese Product” with a best-before date between January 10, 2024 and January 27, 2024. Individual packages in this recall contain an “S” and “72” in the production code on the packaging.
Also affected are the 3-pound multipacks of “Kraft Singles American Pasteurized Prepared Cheese Product” with a UPC code of 0-2100060491-3 and a “Best When Used By” dated January 9, 2024 and January 16, 2024.
“Kraft Heinz is committed to maintaining the highest safety and quality standards and apologizes for this inconvenience,” the company said.
Those who have the recalled cheese should not eat it and return it to the point of sale for a refund or exchange. They can also call Kraft Heinz at 1-800-280-8252 to get their money back.
Earlier this year, Kraft announced it was changing the packaging of its individually wrapped cheese to make it easier to open.
The purpose of the refresh is to address the No. 1 customer complaint, which is the “inability to easily open the clear packaging,” according to Kraft. The redesigned flap on each slice adds more texture and makes it easier to find, and it’s also thicker and sturdier so it can be opened without tearing.
The packaging was also updated with a slightly updated logo and an emphasis that the cheese contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives…..