FDA issues urgent recall for popular Friendly's ice cream flavor over risk of life-threatening allergic reactions
Friendly's Ice Cream is voluntarily recalling 324 cartons of its Cookies & Cream ice cream because they may contain soy and wheat allergens not listed on the ingredient label.
The hidden ingredients pose a serious threat to the millions of Americans with soy and wheat allergies, with reactions ranging from mild symptoms like hives and swelling to anaphylaxis, a potentially deadly condition that can cause difficulty breathing.
The FDA said: 'People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to soy and/or wheat run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.'
The affected 48-fluid ounce cartons were distributed through one distributor and shipped to retail stores in Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania. It's unclear which specific stores carry the products.
Recalled products were packaged in Friendly's Vanilla Bean ice cream cartons with Friendly's Cookies & Cream lids. They had a 'best by' date of November 26, 2025.
The recall was initiated after the company discovered that a limited quantity of products were mistakenly packaged in a Friendly's Vanilla Bean ice cream carton that did not identify the allergens.
No other Friendly's products were affected, and no illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported.
About 5million Americans are allergic to soy or wheat.
Symptoms of an allergy include hives, wheezing, coughing, congestion, face and throat swelling and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
This is a life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs very quickly after being exposed to an allergen.
Experts estimate 150 to 200 Americans die from allergen-induced anaphylaxis every year.
It triggers an extreme immune response, leading to dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath and vomiting.
If not treated quickly with epinephrine (adrenaline), which can be administered via injection like an EpiPen or nasal spray, a person can die.
The FDA has not given the recall a designation, though it could be classified as Class I, the most serious, due to the life-threatening risks.
A Class I recall describes 'a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death,' according to the FDA.
The FDA urged customers who purchased the recalled products to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund if they wish.
Customers with questions can contact Friendly's at 800-587-2259.
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