Cerebelly, a company known for producing nutritious snacks for children, has issued a recall on several batches of their popular Smart Bars due to the discovery of surface mold on the products. The recall affects specific flavors and lot codes of the bars, which were distributed across all 50 states in the United States. The recall highlights concerns about the safety and quality control of the affected snacks.
Details of the Recall
The recall was initiated on September 11, 2023, and is ongoing. Cerebelly identified the following flavors and lot codes as contaminated with mold:
- Carrot Date, 5Pk: Lot 23055BW (Manufactured on 02/24/23, Expiration date 11/21/23)
- Sweet Potato Blueberry, 5Pk: Lots 23081BW, 23083BW
- Apple Kale, 5Pk and 7Pk: Lots 23083BW, 23086BW, 23087BW
- Strawberry Beet, 5Pk and 7Pk: Lots 23089BW, 23093BW, 23094BW
- Blueberry Banana, 5Pk: Lots 23081BW, 23083BW
In total, 154,554 selling cartons of the affected bars are part of the recall. While the company states that the mold found is not toxic according to third-party analysis, they advise consumers to return the recalled products for a refund. Those affected can email [email protected] to file for a refund.
Customer Complaints and Company Response
Customer complaints about moldy bars have been registered with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), with some consumers reporting mold on the bars despite unexpired expiration dates. Cerebelly has responded to these complaints, apologizing for the negative experience and offering refunds, replacement products, or discount codes for future purchases, depending on the situation. The company has also mentioned implementing corrective actions to address the issue, including tightening specifications and adding more environmental monitoring at their production facilities.
Safety Concerns
Though Cerebelly claims that the type of mold found, Aspergillus, is common and typically harmless when ingested, mold growth on food products can raise concerns for consumers, particularly for young children with sensitive immune systems. The presence of mold can indicate compromised product integrity and potential spoilage, which may lead to allergic reactions or gastrointestinal issues in some individuals.
Importance of Reporting Issues
The company encourages customers who have experienced problems with their products to report the incidents, as it helps the company identify and resolve issues more effectively. Additionally, reporting such issues to consumer protection agencies like the FDA can contribute to better monitoring and enforcement of food safety standards.
Transparency and Product Testing
Cerebelly has emphasized its commitment to using real ingredients and maintaining high standards for its products. In the past, the company has received recognition for its low levels of heavy metals, receiving the Clean Label Project Purity Award. This underscores Cerebelly's dedication to ingredient quality and purity, which extends beyond the core nutritional value of their offerings.
In light of the recall, consumers are reminded to check the lot codes on their Cerebelly Smart Bars and dispose of any affected products accordingly. They can also stay informed about recalls and safety updates by monitoring official company communications and relevant government agency websites., while Cerebelly's recall demonstrates the company's responsiveness to safety concerns, it serves as a reminder for consumers to remain vigilant when purchasing and consuming packaged foods, especially those intended for children. Regularly checking for updates on product recalls and staying informed about potential issues can help ensure the continued safety and well-being of families.
