Thousands of ice cream units across the United States are being recalled after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified Unilever Manufacturing’s labeling mistake as a Class II recall, which indicates a potential health hazard.

Unilever Manufacturing voluntarily initiated a recall of its Rocky Road Ice Cream product on June 2, 2025, after discovering a packaging error. The recalled ice cream was mistakenly packed in containers labeled as Chocolate Truffle Ice Cream, although the lids correctly indicated the Rocky Road variety.

This mismatch in labeling created confusion about allergen content. While the tub label only mentioned the product “may contain tree nuts,” the lid clearly stated it contains almonds, a known tree nut and a major food allergen.

Tree nuts are among the nine most common allergens regulated by the FDA, alongside peanuts, milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, wheat, soybeans, and sesame. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases reports that approximately 0.5 percent of the U.S. population has a tree nut allergy.

Due to the labeling confusion, consumers with tree nut allergies might unknowingly consume almonds, potentially triggering allergic reactions ranging from mild symptoms such as skin rashes to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Product Details

1. Product Name: Rocky Road Ice Cream
2. Mistaken Packaging: Chocolate Truffle Ice Cream tub with a Rocky Road lid
3. Lot Code: JUL 1026GB3
4. UPC Code: 077567457288
5. Number of Cases Involved: 6,668 cases (only 12 individual units confirmed as affected)
6. Distribution: Nationwide across the United States

FDA Risk Classification

The FDA has officially classified the situation as a Class II recall. This classification means that while the exposure could result in temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, the likelihood of serious injury or death is considered remote.

Expert Insight

Dr. Scott H. Sicherer, director of the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, emphasized the seriousness of food allergen exposure.
According to Dr. Sicherer:

“Some individuals may experience severe reactions from trace amounts. Allergic symptoms can occur within minutes and may include itchy mouth, skin swelling, rash, nausea, breathing difficulties, or even anaphylaxis. Anyone suspecting a food allergy should consult a certified allergist.”

Next Steps for Consumers and Retailers

Consumers are advised to:

• Check their freezers for the affected lot.
• Discard the product or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
• Seek immediate medical attention if any adverse health symptoms occur after consumption.

Retailers are urged to:

• Review inventories.
• Remove affected products from shelves.
• Notify customers of the recall to prevent accidental consumption.

Status: The recall remains ongoing as of June 10, 2025. The FDA has not confirmed whether any allergic reactions have been officially reported to date.

For more information or assistance, consumers can contact Unilever Manufacturing through the contact information provided on their product packaging or company website.

Source:FDA & Newsweek