Baked Bean Recall Update as FDA Sets Highest Risk Level

Newsweek

19-05-2025

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class I recall—the highest risk level—for Yellowstone Brown Sugar Molasses Baked Beans.
Vietti Food Group of Nashville recalled 4,515 cases from shelves in 23 states after it was found that cans, mislabeled as the Brown Sugar Molasses variety, instead contained Beef and BBQ Baked Beans with undeclared soy, putting allergy sufferers at risk.
Newsweek has contacted the Vietti Food Group outside of regular working hours via email for comment.
Why It Matters
The FDA's Class I designation applies to recalls where there is a reasonable chance a product could cause serious health consequences or death. An undeclared allergen such as soy poses a life-threatening danger for those with allergies and points to the critical importance of food labeling. Expansive distribution of these beans amplifies risk for families and individuals across the U.S.
A photo of the affected baked beans product in the recall.
A photo of the affected baked beans product in the recall.
Vietti Food Group
What To Know
The recall affects Yellowstone Brown Sugar Molasses Baked Beans in 15-ounce cans, identified by UPC 071846187071 and labeled with a best if used by date of February 17, 2028, on the bottom of each can.
Vietti Food Group initiated the recall voluntarily on May 2, and the FDA assigned a Class I classification to this recall on May 16, 2025.
Class I recalls are reserved for the most severe cases, where there is a credible threat of serious health consequences or death. In this instance, the risk comes from consumption of an allergen (soy) by unsuspecting individuals who rely on label accuracy for health management.
The recalled baked beans were distributed to retail outlets in the following states: Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Virginia.
Consumers in these states who purchased the product with the recalled lot code were advised to check their pantries and return affected cans for a full refund.
No illnesses or adverse reactions had been reported as of the last FDA update.
What People Are Saying
The FDA said on its website: "Food allergic reactions vary in severity from mild symptoms involving hives and lip swelling to severe, life-threatening symptoms, often called anaphylaxis, that may involve fatal respiratory problems and shock.
"While promising prevention and therapeutic strategies are being developed, food allergies currently cannot be cured. Early recognition and learning how to manage food allergies, including which foods to avoid, are important measures to prevent serious health consequences."
It added: "To protect those with food allergies and other food hypersensitivities, the FDA enforces regulations requiring companies to list ingredients on packaged foods and beverages. For certain foods or substances that cause allergies or other hypersensitivity reactions, there are more specific labeling requirements."
What Happens Next
The recall remains ongoing, pending further updates from the FDA. Consumers who have purchased the affected canned beans are urged not to consume the product if they have a soy allergy or sensitivity. Instead, they should return it to the place of purchase to receive a full refund. For further assistance, Vietti Food Group is available at [phone] weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. CT or by email at [e-mail]