Organic Applesauce Recalled Over Toxin Risk
Consumers should check jars of Wholesome Pantry organic applesauce for specific codes due to potential mold toxins.
Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Organic Food
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Wakefern Food Corp. has recalled 23-ounce jars of Wholesome Pantry organic unsweetened applesauce after FDA testing revealed elevated levels of patulin. No illnesses have been reported, but the product was sold at several major grocery chains.
Why it matters
Patulin is a mycotoxin produced by mold that can trigger gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, vomiting, and stomach irritation. Checking your pantry for these specific codes is a necessary step to avoid potential exposure.
Routine FDA surveillance identified elevated levels of the mycotoxin patulin in the recalled applesauce. The presence of this toxin, which forms on moldy fruit, prompted the voluntary recall to ensure consumer safety.
The players
Wakefern Food Corp.
A large retailer-owned cooperative that manages brands including Wholesome Pantry and supplies grocery chains like ShopRite.
Food and Drug Administration
The federal public health agency responsible for identifying food safety risks through routine testing and enforcing product recalls.
The details
Patulin is a toxic substance produced by certain molds that often grow on damaged or decayed fruit used in production. When ingested, even in low amounts, it can cause immediate irritation to the gastrointestinal tract. This recall specifically targets 23-ounce plastic containers with UPC 04119005677 and item code 010780115, which were distributed through ShopRite, The Fresh Grocer, Gourmet Garage, Fairway Market, and Price Rite Marketplace.
Timeline
June 16, 2027 is the best-by date listed on the affected jars.
Health Landscape
This recall occurs under the framework of the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act, which standardizes how companies must identify and mitigate contamination risks in the food supply. It highlights the ongoing challenge of detecting mycotoxins in organic produce processing.
If you have a jar of Wholesome Pantry organic unsweetened applesauce, verify the UPC and item code immediately to confirm if your product is affected. Return any identified jars to your place of purchase for a full refund or replacement, and consult a physician if you develop any stomach irritation.
The takeaway
Product recalls are an essential tool for preventing the consumption of food contaminated with harmful mold-related toxins. Always check your pantry against active recall lists if you experience unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms after eating organic fruit products.
Further reading
For more on how food standards are maintained, visit Organic Food.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Cool Down.
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