The sun’s out, temperatures are soaring, and the siren song of summer evenings filled with, yes, ice cream, is getting louder. But hold on a second. Before you dive spoon-first into that pint of creamy goodness, there’s something you need to know. A rather large something, involving a whopping 16,000 gallons of…recalled ice cream. Plastic, you ask? Yep, that’s exactly what prompted this recall. Seriously, how does *that* even happen?
The scoop (pun intended!) is that Wells Enterprises issued a voluntary recall on April 25th for 22 of its products. This isn’t just a minor kerfuffle; the FDA has classified it as a Class II recall. What does that mean, exactly? Well, according to the FDA, it’s “a situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.” In simpler terms, it *could* cause a problem, but hopefully not a serious one. Luckily, there haven’t been any reported incidents of harm just yet.
Which Ice Creams Are Affected? Time to Raid the Freezer
Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. Is *your* favorite ice cream on the list? Better check those tubs! All the affected products are sold in 3-gallon tubs and have expiration dates between March 2025 and October 2026. The most recalled of the bunch? Vanilla Frozen Yogurt, with a grand total of 5,280 tubs affected. Are you a fan? Well, it might be time to switch to something else…at least for now.
Want to know the full list of recalled ice cream? Mary Greeley News has you covered with a helpful YouTube update.
Below is the comprehensive breakdown. Check those UPC and lot numbers carefully!
| Ice Cream Flavor | UPC | Lot Number |
|---|---|---|
| Rocky Road Flavored Ice Cream | 070640050314 | 50009 |
| Mocha Almond Fudge Ice Cream | 070640050420 | 50016 |
| Peanut Butter N Fudge Ice Cream | 070640050574 | 50012 |
| Country Rich Vanilla Ice Cream | 070640600052 | 50085 |
| Scooper Hero Ice Cream | 070640050642 | 50011 |
| Cotton Candy Flavored Ice Cream | 070640050482 | 50018 |
| GFGB Vanilla Bean Flavored Ice Cream | 070640000272 | 50024 |
| Quick Blend Vanilla Flavored Ice Cream | 070640050604 | 50034 |
| Planet Smoothie ZSA Vanilla Fat Free Frozen Yogurt | 070640005567 | 50014 |
| Johnny Rockets Vanilla Flavored Ice Cream | 070640006564 | 50029 |
| BIPC Flavored Ice Cream | 070640008025 | 50024 |
| Vanilla Frozen Yogurt | 00070640022144 | 50002 |
| Vanilla Flavored Ice Cream | 070640022250 | 50005 |
| GFGB 12 Percent Vanilla Flavored Ice Cream | 070640018451 | 50004 |
| Gordon Choice Vanilla Flavored Ice Cream | 00093901820730 | 50003 |
| Vanilla Bean Ice Cream | 50758108658085 | 50026 |
| Glenview Farms Vanilla Flavored Ice Cream | 50758108118398 | 50066 |
| Glenview Farms Chocolate Ice Cream | 50758108118404 | 50033 |
| Glenview Farms French Vanilla Ice Cream | 50758108392668 | 50015 |
| Sysco French Vanilla Ice Cream | 00074865257275 | 50025 |
| Keith Valley Vanilla Flavored Ice Cream | 046045065871 | 50004 |
| Ellington Farms Vanilla Flavored Ice Cream | 046045065833 | 50003 |
What to Do If You Have Recalled Ice Cream
Simple: toss it. It’s a bummer, we know. But the risk of ingesting plastic? Definitely not worth it. Consider it a sign to try something new! Maybe homemade ice cream is in order?
A Silver Lining: Time for Culinary Creativity!
So, what *can* you do now that your freezer might be a bit emptier? Let’s turn this lemon into lemonade, shall we? Here are a few ideas to satisfy that sweet tooth and embrace the spirit of summer:
- DIY Ice Cream: Okay, hear me out. Making ice cream at home is easier than you think, and you get complete control over the ingredients. Think luscious lavender honey ice cream, or a tangy lemon sorbet. The possibilities are endless!
- Fruity Popsicles: Blend your favorite fruits, add a touch of honey or agave, and freeze in popsicle molds. Refreshing, healthy, and totally customizable. Mango, strawberry, watermelon…oh my!
- Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Whipped Cream: Okay, this one is a little unexpected, but trust me. Grilling pineapple caramelizes the sugars, creating a smoky sweetness that is divine. Top it with homemade coconut whipped cream for a truly decadent treat.
A Final Thought
While this ice cream recall might throw a wrench into your summer plans, it’s also an opportunity to explore new flavors and culinary adventures. So, ditch the recalled tubs, grab your apron, and get creative in the kitchen. After all, summer is about making memories, one delicious bite at a time. And who knows, you might just discover your new favorite frozen treat!
Article inspired by reporting from Mel Curry at Cosmopolitan and official FDA announcements.
Digging Deeper: Understanding Food Recalls and Safety
This vanilla ice cream recall might leave you feeling a bit uneasy, and that’s understandable. Food recalls happen more often than you might think, and it’s good to understand why and how they work. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) plays a crucial role in monitoring and regulating the food supply to ensure our safety. When a potential hazard is identified, whether it’s a foreign object, a bacterial contamination, or mislabeling, a recall can be initiated.
Recalls are classified into three classes, as we mentioned earlier:
- Class I: This is the most serious type of recall, involving situations where there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.
- Class II: This is the class of recall for the vanilla ice cream, where the use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.
- Class III: This is the least serious type of recall, involving situations where the use of, or exposure to, a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.
Staying informed about food recalls is essential. You can sign up for email alerts from the FDA or check their website regularly for updates. Knowing the signs and being proactive can help protect you and your family.
Vanilla Ice Cream Alternatives: A World of Frozen Delights Awaits!
Okay, so maybe vanilla ice cream is off the menu for a bit. But don’t despair! The world of frozen desserts is vast and exciting. Let’s explore some tantalizing alternatives that will have you forgetting all about that recall.
For the Vanilla Purist:
- French Vanilla Ice Cream: If you’re a vanilla devotee, try French vanilla. It’s richer and creamier than regular vanilla, thanks to the addition of egg yolks. Look for high-quality brands that use real vanilla beans.
- Vanilla Bean Gelato: Gelato is denser and more intensely flavored than ice cream. A good vanilla bean gelato will be bursting with the aromatic flavor of vanilla.
- Homemade Vanilla Pudding Pops: Whip up a batch of creamy vanilla pudding, pour it into popsicle molds, and freeze. A simple and satisfying treat.
For the Adventurous Palate:
- Lavender Honey Ice Cream: This floral and subtly sweet ice cream is a sophisticated treat. The lavender adds a delicate aroma that complements the honey perfectly.
- Salted Caramel Ice Cream: The sweet and salty combination is irresistible. Look for ice creams that use real sea salt and have a rich, buttery caramel flavor.
- Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream: For a taste of the exotic, try matcha green tea ice cream. The earthy and slightly bitter flavor of matcha is a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the ice cream.
DIY Delight: No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Want to make your own vanilla ice cream without a fancy ice cream maker? This no-churn recipe is super easy and yields a creamy, delicious result.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Scoop and enjoy!
Pro Tip: For an extra vanilla punch, scrape the seeds from one vanilla bean into the mixture before freezing.
Beyond Ice Cream: Exploring Other Summer Dessert Options
Summer is the perfect time to indulge in all sorts of refreshing desserts. Let’s expand our horizons beyond ice cream and discover some equally delightful options.
- Fruit Salad with Mint and Lime: A vibrant and healthy dessert that’s perfect for a hot day. Combine your favorite fruits, such as watermelon, berries, and mango, and toss with fresh mint and lime juice.
- Lemon Bars: These tangy and buttery bars are a classic summer treat. The bright lemon flavor is incredibly refreshing.
- Strawberry Shortcake: A quintessential summer dessert. Soft biscuits, juicy strawberries, and whipped cream—what’s not to love?
Enjoying Summer Safely and Deliciously
This ice cream recall is a reminder to be vigilant about food safety, but it shouldn’t dampen your summer spirit. By staying informed, exploring new flavors, and getting creative in the kitchen, you can enjoy a safe and delicious summer filled with sweet memories. So go ahead, embrace the sunshine, savor the flavors, and make this summer your best one yet!
Ice Cream Recall FAQs
Why was the vanilla ice cream recalled?
The vanilla ice cream was recalled due to potential plastic contamination.
What does a Class II recall mean?
A Class II recall means that the use of or exposure to the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.
What should I do if I have recalled ice cream?
You should discard the recalled ice cream to avoid any potential risk of ingesting plastic.
Navigating the Ice Cream Recall: A Sweet Ending
While a nationwide ice cream recall might seem like a summer nightmare, it presents a delicious opportunity to explore new culinary horizons. By checking your freezer, taking necessary precautions, and embracing creativity in the kitchen, you can turn this setback into a chance to discover your next favorite frozen treat.