The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for more than 15,000 boxes of oyster crackers sold at major retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Giant Eagle. The recall was prompted by the discovery of stainless steel wire fragments in the products, posing a potential health risk to consumers.
The recall was initiated on February 21, 2025, by Shearer’s Foods, LLC, and later classified as a Class II recall by the FDA on March 11. This classification indicates that consuming the product could lead to temporary or reversible adverse health effects, though the risk of serious harm is limited.
Brands and States Affected by the Recall
The recalled crackers were distributed under different brand names and were available in supermarkets across at least 20 states in the U.S. The affected brands include:
- Market Pantry Soup & Oyster Crackers (Target)
- Great Value Soup & Oyster Crackers (Walmart)
- Giant Eagle Oyster Crackers (Giant Eagle)
- Vista Soup & Oyster Crackers (bulk distribution)
The products were sold in Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
How to Identify the Affected Crackers
To determine whether you have purchased one of the recalled products, check the following UPC codes and expiration dates:
- Market Pantry Soup & Oyster Crackers (Target): UPC 085239114933 – Expiration Date: May 23, 2025 (Code BC06).
- Great Value Soup & Oyster Crackers (Walmart): UPC 078742085494 – Expiration Date: May 23, 2025 (Codes ABO6, BBO6, CBO6).
- Giant Eagle Oyster Crackers: UPC 030034915087 – Expiration Date: May 24, 2025 (Code AB06).
- Vista Soup & Oyster Crackers (bulk): UPC 045100008006 – Expiration Date: May 24, 2025 (Code AB06).
- Bulk Oyster Crackers (20 lb): UPC 10045100400203 – Expiration Date: May 24, 2025 (Codes AB06, BB06).
What to Do If You Purchased the Recalled Crackers
The FDA advises consumers not to consume these products. If you have purchased any of the affected crackers, you should dispose of them immediately or return them to the store where they were bought for a refund or exchange.
While many of the recalled batches may have already been removed from store shelves, it is still important to check your pantry and stay informed about any further updates.
For more information, visit the FDA’s official website or contact Shearer’s Foods, LLC.