Sugar Foods LLC has issued a voluntary recall of specific lots of Kroger Homestyle Cheese Garlic Croutons after concerns were raised about possible Salmonella contamination linked to a milk powder ingredient used in the seasoning blend.
The recall was announced by the company on May 15, 2026, and later published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on May 18, 2026. According to the company, the affected milk powder was originally supplied by California Dairies, Inc. to seasoning supplier Solina USA, which manufactures the seasoning blend applied to the recalled croutons.
Although the seasoning batches tested negative for Salmonella before use, the recall has been initiated as a precautionary measure following the supplier’s recall of the milk powder ingredient.
The recall specifically affects Kroger Homestyle Cheese Garlic Croutons sold in 5 oz pouches with UPC code 0 11110 81353 4.
The impacted products carry the following “Best If Used By” dates:
Salmonella is a harmful bacterium that can cause severe foodborne illness. Young children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are considered most vulnerable to serious infections.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection may include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and abdominal pain. In more severe cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and lead to serious complications such as arterial infections, endocarditis, and arthritis.
At present, no illnesses or adverse reactions related to the recalled croutons have been reported.
The recalled croutons were distributed between March 7, 2026, and April 7, 2026, to Kroger retail stores across multiple U.S. states. These states include Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.
Consumers who purchased the affected products are advised not to consume them. Customers can dispose of the product safely or contact Sugar Foods LLC for additional assistance and product-related questions at 332-240-6676, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The recall is being conducted in coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as part of ongoing food safety and consumer protection efforts.