News

Le Pain Quotidien issues allergy alert

June 9, 2009

NEW YORK — The manufacturer of Le Pain Quotidien's Noir Belgian Dark Chocolate Spread is recalling a limited number of 14.15-oz. jars of Noir Belgian Dark Chocolate Spread because the product may contain undeclared milk. People who have an allergy to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.

The Noir Belgian Dark Chocolate Spread was sold at all Le Pain Quotidien restaurants in New York, Connecticut, California, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.

The product is packaged in a 14.15 oz. glass jar with a label that says "Noir Belgian dark chocolate spread." The lot code involved in the recall is 9015 which can be found printed on the lid of the jar. The product lid is labeled with a production date of "15.01.09" and expiration date of "15.01.10." The UPC number is 5 425018 441174 which can be found on the label on the side of the jar.

There has been one reported allergic reaction complaint at this time.

To prevent a recurrence, Le Pain Quotidien's supplier has discontinued packaging this product until packaging materials with the correct allergen declaration are available and ready for use.

The company has reviewed all other labels to verify that all other potential allergens are identified. The company's findings and corrective action plans have been reported to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), according to a news release.

Consumers with an allergy to milk are advised not to consume the product, and are urged to return the item to any Le Pain Quotidien restaurant for a full refund. Consumers with additional questions on the recall may contact Jack Moran, VP of food, beverage and brand, at (917) 945-8402 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.