Beacon Promotions Triggers Voluntary Recall (Image Credits: Unsplash)
A timely warning emerged for chocolate lovers ahead of Valentine’s Day after a Minnesota company recalled thousands of custom-labeled M&M packages due to undeclared allergens.
Beacon Promotions Triggers Voluntary Recall
Beacon Promotions Inc., a Minnesota-based firm specializing in branded merchandise, launched a voluntary recall on January 26 for select M&M products it repackaged.
These items featured logos from various businesses, intended as giveaways for employees or clients. Companies often turn to such promoters for customized items like tote bags or candies. The recall stemmed not from issues with the candies themselves, but from packaging that omitted required allergen disclosures. Vulnerable individuals faced risks from milk, soy, and peanuts without proper warnings. The FDA documented the action in two enforcement reports.
Class II Designation Signals Potential Health Concerns
Both recalls earned a Class II classification from the FDA, indicating products that could lead to temporary or reversible health effects, with low odds of severe outcomes.
This level underscores the seriousness without escalating to immediate danger. Allergen exposure remains a leading cause of food-related incidents, particularly for those with sensitivities. Beacon acted proactively upon discovering the labeling error. Consumers who received these as promotional items might not suspect the hazard.
Specific Products Pulled from Shelves
The recalls encompassed over 6,300 units across two batches of repackaged M&Ms, each weighing 1.3 ounces.
Details from the FDA reports outline the affected items:
| Recall | Product Description | Lot/Best By | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | M&Ms Peanut, Item BB471BG, Labeled “Make Your Mark” | M1823200 / 4/30/2026 | 541 |
| Second | M&Ms Plain, Item BB458BG | L450ARCLV03/12/1/2025; L502FLHKP01/1/1/2026; L523CMHKP01/6/30/2026; L537GMHKP01/9/1/2026 | 5,788 |
The second recall included labels from organizations such as Subaru, University of Maryland School of Public Policy, Morgan Stanley, Adobe, and others like Jaxport and Dropbox DocSend.
Distribution Spans 20 States
Products reached customers in 20 states through promotional channels.
Affected areas included Arizona, California, Florida, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Recipients likely obtained them at events, conferences, or as business gifts. No retail sales occurred through standard stores.
Steps for Consumers with Suspect Packages
FDA notices stopped short of detailed disposal instructions, yet caution prevails for anyone holding matching items.
Individuals with allergies should discard the products to prevent accidental consumption. Businesses that distributed them may contact Beacon for guidance. Monitoring for updates from the FDA enforcement reports remains advisable. Proactive checks on custom candies can avert risks during holiday seasons.
Key Takeaways
- Over 6,300 units of promotional M&Ms recalled for missing milk, soy, and peanut warnings.
- Class II recall affects giveaways labeled for companies like Adobe and Subaru.
- Distributed in 20 states; discard if you have matching lots and dates.
This recall highlights the critical role of accurate labeling in promotional foods, urging businesses and consumers alike to verify allergen info. What promotional items have you received lately, and how do you check for safety? Share in the comments.
