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Urgent Health Alert: Dangerous Apricots Recalled Across Nearly 20 States Over Undeclared Sulfites

Health officials are raising a serious alarm about Turkana Food Inc.’s Floria Dried Apricots, sold in nearly 20 states, after tests revealed they may contain dangerous levels of undeclared sulfites—a preservative known to cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

The FDA has urgently advised consumers to stop eating these apricots immediately. The recall specifically targets packages with an expiration date of November 2026.

Why the Concern?

Sulfites are common additives used to preserve freshness and prevent spoilage in foods like dried fruits, wine, and processed goods. While generally safe for most, sulfites can trigger serious allergic reactions in some people—especially those with asthma or sulfite sensitivity.

Reactions can range from mild symptoms like hives, swelling, and stomach pain to severe and potentially life-threatening events such as difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis.

What Happened?

During a routine inspection, the New York State Department of Agriculture discovered that Turkana Food Inc.’s dried apricot packaging failed to disclose the presence of sulfites—a violation of FDA labeling requirements.

Affected products have been sold in:

• Florida

• Kentucky

• Virginia

• New York

• New Jersey

• Tennessee

• Massachusetts

• Texas

• Illinois

• Indiana

• Michigan

• Rhode Island

• Pennsylvania

• North Carolina

• Maryland

• Ohio

• Alabama

• Missouri

• California

So far, no illnesses have been reported, but the risk remains high for those sensitive to sulfites.

How to Identify the Recalled Product

• LOT Number: 440090478-15-333 (found at the bottom of the package)

• UPC Label: 2539560010 (on a sticker at the top of the package)

Consumers are urged to return any affected apricots to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Sulfite Sensitivity: Who’s at Risk?

Approximately 4% of Americans—around 13 million people—are sensitive to sulfites, with those suffering from asthma at even greater risk. Symptoms can appear quickly after exposure and include:

• Wheezing and shortness of breath

• Coughing and sneezing

• Chest tightness and difficulty breathing

For those affected, doctors typically recommend antihistamines and Vitamin B12 supplements.

Background & Regulatory Information

Due to rising allergy cases, the FDA banned sulfites in fresh produce in 1986. However, sulfites can still be used in preserved foods but must be clearly declared on packaging if exceeding 10 parts per million (ppm).

This recall follows a recent similar incident where Texas Pete’s Habanero Buffalo hot sauce was recalled after bottles were found to contain undeclared sulfites due to a product mix-up with Sriracha sauce.

Important: If you have a sulfite allergy, consuming these apricots could lead to serious or life-threatening allergic reactions. Please take caution and heed the recall notice.