Chocolate recalled Nationwide: In mid-January 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a nationwide voluntary recall of a specific chocolate product produced by Spring & Mulberry. The recall was initiated after routine testing discovered the potential presence of Salmonella, a bacteria that can cause serious infections. This article details exactly which chocolate bars are affected, the health risks involved, and the steps consumers should take immediately to secure a refund.
Table of Contents
- The Recall: Spring & Mulberry Mint Leaf Chocolate
- Identifying the Affected Product (Lot Codes & Packaging)
- Where Was It Sold?
- Understanding the Risk: Salmonella Symptoms
- What to Do If You Have the Recalled Chocolate
- Company and FDA Response
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Chocolate recalled Nationwide: Spring & Mulberry Mint Leaf Chocolate
On January 12, 2026, Raleigh-based chocolate maker Spring & Mulberry issued a voluntary recall for a specific batch of its premium chocolate bars. The recall focuses exclusively on the Mint Leaf Date-Sweetened Chocolate Bar.
The issue was identified during a routine sampling program conducted by a third-party laboratory, which detected the presence of Salmonella in a specific lot of the finished product. While no illnesses have been reported to date, the company and the FDA are urging consumers to stop eating this product immediately out of an abundance of caution.
Identifying the Affected Product
If you have purchased Spring & Mulberry chocolate recently, you need to check your pantry. The recall is specific to one flavor and one lot code. Other flavors from the brand are not currently affected.
Product Details:
- Product Name: Mint Leaf Date-Sweetened Chocolate Bar
- Net Weight: 2.1 oz (60g)
- Packaging Description: Sold in a distinctive Teal/Green paper box.
- Lot Code: #025255
- Best By Date: 03/31/2027
Where to Look: You can find the Lot Code and Best By Date printed on the back panel of the outer paper box, as well as on the inner flow wrap that seals the chocolate bar.
Where Was It Sold?
The affected chocolate bars were distributed nationwide to consumers and retailers.
- Online: Sold directly through the Spring & Mulberry website (springandmulberry.com).
- Retailers: Available at select boutique retailers and potentially major high-end department stores or online marketplaces (such as Amazon or Nordstrom) that carry the brand’s wellness-focused treats.
- Sales Period: The affected items have been available for purchase since September 15, 2025.
Understanding the Risk: Salmonella Symptoms
Salmonella is a microscopic organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
Common Symptoms: Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience:
- Fever
- Diarrhea (which may be bloody)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
Timeline: Symptoms usually start within 6 hours to 6 days after infection and last 4 to 7 days. In rare circumstances, infection can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.
If you have consumed the recalled product and are experiencing these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
What to Do If You Have the Recalled Chocolate
If you possess a Spring & Mulberry Mint Leaf bar with Lot Code #025255, do not consume it.
Steps for Consumers:
- Check the Code: Verify the lot number on the back of the package.
- Dispose of the Product: Throw the chocolate away in a secure trash bin where children or pets cannot access it.
- Request a Refund: The company is offering full refunds. To claim yours, take a photo of the product showing the lot code and email it to recalls@springandmulberry.com.
Company and FDA Response
Spring & Mulberry has emphasized that this recall is an isolated incident involving a single production run. “The safety and trust of our community is our highest priority,” the brand noted in its announcement. They have ceased distribution of the affected lot and are working with the FDA to investigate the root cause of the contamination.
For further questions, consumers can contact Spring & Mulberry customer service directly via the email provided above.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Spring & Mulberry chocolate flavor is recalled? Only the Mint Leaf Date-Sweetened Chocolate Bar (2.1 oz) is recalled. Other flavors like Mixed Berry or Pure Dark are not included in this alert.
What is the lot code for the recalled chocolate? The affected lot code is #025255. It is printed on the back of the teal box and the inner wrapper.
Has anyone gotten sick from the recalled chocolate? As of the recall announcement on January 12, 2026, no illnesses have been reported. The recall was initiated after routine testing found the bacteria.
Where was the recalled chocolate sold? It was sold nationwide online at springandmulberry.com and at various retailers starting in September 2025.
Can I get a refund if I threw the chocolate away? The company requests a photo of the lot code for a refund. If you have already discarded it, you may try contacting their customer service with your order number or proof of purchase for assistance.
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