Health officials are sounding the alarm over a growing food safety scare involving dried apricots sold in nearly 20 U.S. states. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent warning to consumers after discovering that certain batches of Turkana Food Inc.’s Floria Dried Apricots may contain dangerous levels of undeclared sulfites — additives that can cause serious or even fatal reactions in sensitive individuals.
The FDA’s advisory specifically targets products with an expiration date of November 2026, urging consumers to immediately stop eating them and either return the packages to the point of purchase or dispose of them safely. Officials say the warning comes after multiple reports of allergic reactions and hospitalizations linked to the consumption of these apricots.
Sulfites are commonly used in food manufacturing to preserve freshness, prevent spoilage, and maintain color in products such as dried fruits, wines, and processed foods. While safe for most people in small quantities, they can trigger severe reactions — including difficulty breathing, hives, or anaphylaxis — in those who are sulfite-sensitive or suffer from asthma.
According to the FDA, the issue with Turkana Food Inc.’s product lies in the absence of sulfite disclosure on the packaging. U.S. regulations require all manufacturers to list sulfites as an ingredient if concentrations exceed 10 parts per million, ensuring that consumers can make informed choices. The undeclared presence of sulfites represents a significant violation of food labeling laws.
Health experts have emphasized the seriousness of the situation. “For those with sulfite allergies, consuming even a small amount can be life-threatening,” said Dr. Lillian Harper, a toxicologist specializing in food safety. “What makes this situation alarming is that unsuspecting consumers could be at risk simply by eating a product they trust.”
The recall affects grocery stores, markets, and online retailers across nearly 20 states, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois. Many of the contaminated products were sold in one-pound clear plastic bags under the brand name Floria Dried Apricots. Officials are currently working to track remaining stock and notify distributors.
Turkana Food Inc. has issued a statement cooperating fully with the FDA investigation. The company expressed regret over the incident and assured customers that it is reviewing production and labeling processes to prevent future occurrences. “Our priority is the health and safety of our customers,” the statement read. “We are taking immediate corrective action.”
Consumers who experience symptoms after consuming the product — such as rash, swelling, shortness of breath, or dizziness — are urged to seek immediate medical attention. Health professionals advise bringing the product packaging or receipt to help confirm exposure to sulfites, aiding in treatment and reporting to authorities.
This incident has reignited discussions about food transparency and the importance of strict labeling standards. Consumer advocacy groups argue that mislabeling or omission of potential allergens can have devastating consequences and call for tougher penalties on companies that fail to comply with food safety laws.
The FDA has reassured the public that it continues to monitor the situation closely and will update its website as more information becomes available. Inspectors are conducting spot checks at retail locations and coordinating with local health departments to ensure all affected products are removed from shelves.
Ultimately, the recall serves as a sobering reminder of how even everyday grocery items can pose hidden dangers. Health officials encourage consumers to read labels carefully, stay informed about recalls, and report any adverse reactions to the FDA’s MedWatch program. For those with allergies or sensitivities, awareness and caution remain the best defense against unexpected health risks.