Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets, Inc., a Lakewood, Colorado-based natural grocery chain, is recalling Natural Grocers brand Organic Deglet Noor Dates Pitted because it may contain undeclared coconut, an allergen.  People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to coconut run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.

The recalled product is packaged in clear plastic bags varying in weight and bearing the “Natural Grocers” label. Only packages bearing 198-17 as the packed on date are subject to recall.  The packed on date can be found in the bottom left-hand corner of the label.

The product was distributed to 45 Natural Grocers’ stores located in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Consumers can find the specific locations of Natural Grocers’ stores in those states at: http://www.naturalgrocers.com/store-locations.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing coconut was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of coconut.

To date, the company has received no reports of illness. Consumers who may have purchased this product should return it to the store for credit or refund.  Anyone allergic to coconut should not consume this product. 

The lot in question has been removed from sale and replaced with correctly labeled product.

Consumers with questions may contact the company by calling Customer Service at 303-986-4600, ext. 80531, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (MST)

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