In a year marked by numerous food recalls, Horizon Organic Dairy, LLC has stepped into the spotlight with its latest announcement. They have issued a voluntary recall for their Organic Whole Milk 8-fluid ounce cartons. According to a report by Forbes, while there have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this milk, CVS Pharmacy, a major retailer of the brand, has preemptively alerted customers about this potential spoilage issue.
The 8-ounce cartons, marketed as convenient, on-the-go beverages for children, are widely available across various retail outlets, including grocery stores, coffee shops, and smaller food markets.
As of this publication, it is noteworthy that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not officially announced the recall, making this situation distinct as a retailer is taking proactive measures to warn customers first. Alongside this alert, CVS has made arrangements for refunds for affected customers. For context, it is pertinent to highlight that back in September, Horizon Organic Dairy, LLC also opted for a voluntary recall of its heavy whipping cream due to concerns of premature spoilage.
What Should You Do If You Have Horizon Organic Whole Milk?
Consumers who have purchased Horizon Organic’s 8-ounce whole milk cartons are advised to refrain from consuming it immediately. Instead, they should return these cartons to CVS for a full refund. When returning the product, please refer to the back label for the following identifiers:
- SKU: 630205
- UPC: 36632071132
- Lot Codes: 2025.03.03, 2025.03.04, 2025.03.06
Why Is This Recall Important?
Understanding the significance of this recall involves insight into milk storage practices. While unopened pasteurized milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to seven days and frozen for approximately three months, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) clarifies that “best by” and “use by” dates pertain to flavor and quality rather than safety. Signs of spoiled milk include:
- An off-putting odor
- A sour taste or flavor
- A chunky or lumpy texture
Regardless of its appearance, this recall mandates that consumers should refrain from using the milk.
