Viral Pasta Brand Issues Product Recall After 8 Reported Allergic Reactions
The viral pasta brand Googles Foods Inc. has issued an immediate recall of several of its mac & cheese products. The reason? Undeclared allergens that aren’t listed on the affected products. That means people who are allergic or sensitive could be in danger if they eat them, and there have already been 8 reports of reactions so far. Here’s what we know.
Which Products Were Affected
The two recalled products are Vegan Is Believin’ – Plant-Based White Cheddar with Spirals and Here Comes Truffle – Creamy Truffle Flavored Cheddar and Shells. The White Cheddar version may contain milk, and the Truffle flavor may contain cashews. Neither of these allergens appears on the packaging, and since the products are labeled as vegan-friendly, those with allergies may be unknowingly exposed.
Timeline of Production & Distribution
Affected boxes were produced between April 7 and April 15, 2025. From there, they were shipped out and sold between April 29 and August 5, 2025. Distribution included online retailers as well as brick-and-mortar grocery stores and wholesalers. So if you bought either product during that window, there’s a chance your box is one of the recalled lots.
How Many Lots and Which Codes
There are five different lot codes linked to the Vegan Is Believin’ White Cheddar with Spirals: codes 09725N through 10125N. Best-by dates for those may be as far into the future as early July of 2026. For the Truffle flavor, three lot codes are implicated: 10125N, 10425N, 10525N, with packaging marked for mid-July best-by dates. These codes are printed on the box so you can check your pantry.
Health Risks & Allergic Reactions
Because milk and cashews are common allergens, the risk is worrisome. Gooder Foods says there have been eight reported allergic reactions linked to the products. Symptoms ranged from mild to more severe, including hives, breathing difficulties, vomiting, etc. For someone with severe sensitivity, even trace amounts can trigger a life-threatening reaction, like anaphylaxis. That’s why this recall matters far beyond simple mislabeled packaging.
Why Did This Happen?
The scent of the issue lies in undeclared allergens—milk for one product, and cashews for the other. It appears the problem was likely a cross-contamination or a labeling oversight. The company learned about it through consumer feedback.
What Gooder Foods & Regulators Are Doing
Gooder Foods is cooperating with the FDA to issue this recall, alerting all impacted retailers, distributors, and consumers. They’re instructing people not to eat the affected boxes and offering full refunds. Product photos, UPCs, lot codes, and best-by dates have been shared by the FDA to help people identify whether their product is part of the recall.
What You Should Do If You Bought One
If you bought either of the two affected varieties, check the lot code, UPC, and best-by date on your box. If your product matches, do not consume it. Instead, return it to the place of purchase or contact the company for a refund. And if you or someone in your household has had an allergic reaction after consuming the product, contact a healthcare provider right away.
Vegan Labeling & Trust
Even though the products are marketed as vegan, the recall raises concerns about trust and safety for plant-based items. For many shoppers, “vegan” means free from animal products and free from cross-contact with allergens. This recall suggests that even brands positioned in the plant-based space need rigorous controls for allergens and labeling.
Lessons Moving Forward
This recall highlights the importance of accurate labeling, strong quality control, and clear communication with consumers, especially those with allergies. Companies making vegan or allergen-friendly products may need to re-examine their processing and packaging protocols to avoid similar problems. For shoppers, it means don’t assume “vegan” means “allergen-safe.”
