Ghirardelli recalls powdered drink mixes over salmonella risk – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Ghirardelli Chocolate Company initiated a voluntary recall last week for several bulk powdered drink mixes after discovering a potential salmonella risk in an ingredient.[1][2] The issue traced back to milk powder supplied by California Dairies, Inc., which prompted the action to protect consumers and food service operators nationwide. No illnesses have been linked to the products so far.
Tracing the Contamination Source
The recall stemmed from a separate action by California Dairies, Inc., which flagged one of its milk powder products for possible salmonella presence.[1] Ghirardelli, based in San Leandro, California, used that powder in mixes produced by a third-party manufacturer. Company testing found no contamination in the finished products, but officials proceeded with the recall out of caution.
Announcement came on April 27, 2026, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration posting details the following day.[1] Primarily targeting food service and institutional buyers, the products reached some individual consumers through online sales channels.
Affected Products and Specific Lots
Thirteen varieties of powdered mixes fell under the recall, all in large formats such as 30-pound bags or multi-pack cases.[1][3] These included frappe blends, hot cocoa pouches, and sweet ground powders in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, white mocha, and frozen hot cocoa. Consumers who purchased bulk items for home use, especially via e-commerce, should inspect labels closely.
- 30lb Chocolate Flavored Frappe (multiple lots, best by dates May 2027 to August 2027)
- 30lb Classic White Frappe (lots S396260A03, S496260A03; best by July 2027)
- 4/2lb Premium Hot Cocoa Pouch Bulk (multiple lots, best by May-June 2027)
- 6/3lb Chocolate & Cocoa Sweet Ground Powder (lots S293260, S293261; best by Dec 2027-Jan 2028)
- 6/3.12lb White Chocolate Flavored Sweet Ground Powder (lots S394260, S494260, S594260; best by July 2027)
- 6/3lb Vanilla Frappe Mix (lots S495260, S495261, S594262; best by March-July 2027)
- 6/3.12lb Chocolate Flavored Frappe Mix (lots S397261, S397262, S397263; best by Feb-June 2027)
- 6/3.12lb Classic White Frappe Mix (lots S193260, S193261; best by June-July 2027)
- 10lb Chocolate Flavored Frappe Mix (lots S295260A03, S395260A03; best by July 2027)
- 10lb Classic White Frappe Mix (multiple lots; best by July-August 2027)
- 6/3.12lb White Mocha Frappe Mix (lots S297261, S297262, S393262; best by May-July 2027)
- 6/3.12lb Mocha Frappe Mix (multiple lots; best by April-August 2027)
- 6/3.12lb Frozen Hot Cocoa Frappe Mix (multiple lots; best by May-Sept 2027)
A complete list with exact lot numbers and expiration dates appears on the FDA recall page.[1]
Quick Check: Look for lots starting with S followed by numbers like 195260A03 and best-by dates through 2028 on packaging.
Understanding the Salmonella Threat
Salmonella bacteria can lead to serious infections, particularly among young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.[1] Symptoms typically include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, though healthy adults might recover without treatment. In rare instances, complications such as arterial infections or arthritis arise.
Food service operators represent the main stakeholders, as the bulk packaging suited restaurant and institutional needs. Retailers received guidance to return products via a dedicated line at 1-855-744-1426.[3] Individual buyers faced lower exposure but still warranted vigilance.
What Consumers and Businesses Should Do Next
Anyone with matching products should avoid consumption and contact Ghirardelli at 1-844-776-0419, available around the clock.[1] The company offered support for returns, replacements, or refunds. Businesses could reach out through a specific consumer form on the Ghirardelli website or the retailer hotline.
This recall underscored supply chain vulnerabilities in food production. Ghirardelli acted swiftly to mitigate risks, ensuring no confirmed cases emerged. Checking pantries now prevents potential issues down the line.
