Butter Recall Alert: 64,800 lbs Pulled Over Hidden Milk Risk

Imagine slathering toast with butter that could send you to the ER…

That’s exactly what might’ve happened if you grabbed a block of Bunge North America’s European Style Butter Blend in mid-July. The FDA just cranked the recall from “meh” to Class II, meaning the hidden milk in the label could trigger serious allergic reactions. So, are you holding a ticking tub in your fridge right now? Let’s dig in—without the lactose.

Which Butter Is Affected? (Check Your Fridge in 30 Seconds)

Product: Bunge European Style Butter Blend, 1 lb blocks Lot Code: 5064036503 (printed on the side) Packaging: White paperboard, 36 blocks per case Shipped to: 12 U.S. distribution centers + 1 in the Dominican Republic Recall Date: July 14 (upgraded to Class II on July 30) 📸 Image 1 – Spot the lot code in 3 seconds

Why the Sudden FDA Upgrade to Class II?

Class II isn’t “run-for-the-hills” territory, but it’s no joke. The FDA reserves it for foods that could land you in urgent care—think hives, swelling, or worse if you’re allergic to milk proteins. “Undeclared allergens remain a top cause of food recalls,” notes Dr. Sarah Collins, allergist at Stanford Health (source). “Even trace amounts can trigger anaphylaxis within minutes.”

What Should You Do Right Now?

Pause the pancakes. Check your butter’s lot code. Seal it up. Don’t toss it in the trash can—bag it so kids or pets can’t snag it. Snap a pic. Retailers usually want proof before refunds. Call Bunge: 1-800-828-0800 (8 a.m.–6 p.m. CT). They’ll walk you through next steps. 💡 Pro tip: If you already spread it on toast and feel itchy, don’t wait—use your epinephrine auto-injector and dial 911. Better safe than swollen.

Real Talk: How Did Milk End Up in “Butter” Anyway?

Short answer? Cross-contamination. Long answer: the blend isn’t 100 % butter—it’s a mix of butter and vegetable oil. Somewhere on the line, a milk-based ingredient (think whey or casein) slipped in without making the label. Classic Friday-afternoon mistake.

Food Allergy 101: Know the Sneaky Symptoms

Table Copy Symptom Mild Severe Skin Itchy rash Hives covering body Breathing Slight cough Wheezing, throat tight Gut Nausea Repeated vomiting If any severe signs pop up, treat it like a fire alarm—get help fast.

FAQs: The Stuff Everyone’s DM’ing Me About

Can I get a refund without a receipt?

Most grocers accept photos of the product + lot code. Trader Joe’s and Walmart confirmed they’ll issue store credit on the spot.

Is this the same as the 2024 Kerrygold recall?

Nope—different company, different reason. Kerrygold’s was a *Listeria* scare; Bunge’s is an allergen mix-up.

My kid drank melted butter—what now?

Watch for symptoms for 2 hours. If none appear, you’re likely in the clear. When in doubt, pediatric urgent care beats Google.

Stay Safe: 3 Quick Habits for Future Butter Buys

Flip before you purchase. Scan the label for bold “Contains: Milk” warnings. Set an alert. Use FDA’s recall email list (yep, .gov link) so recalls hit your inbox before they hit your plate. Follow the freezer rule. Freeze half your butter stash; recalls usually surface within 2–3 weeks.