Costco recently announced a massive butter recall due to mistaken package labeling. According to the Food and Drug Administration, the recall began in early October and affected nearly 80,000 pounds of butter.
The issue arose because the packaging disclaimer failed to mention that the product contained milk. The recall includes approximately 1,300 cases of Kirkland Signature Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter and 900 cases of Kirkland Signature Salted Sweet Cream Butter.
The recall was later classified as a Class II recall which, according to the FDA, a product has the potential to cause “temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
While the specific health risks for consumers remain unclear, it is advisable to dispose of the affected butter promptly and sanitize any areas where it was stored. The FDA has not provided detailed instructions, but general best practices for recalls suggest taking these precautions.
Reactions online to this recall have been mixed. Unlike recalls linked to contamination by Listeria or other dangerous pathogens, this recall, caused by a labeling error, has left some consumers confused about the level of risk.
The recall currently affects products primarily in Texas, but it could expand to other states. Consumers should check their butter for expiration dates between February 22, 2025, and March 29, 2025. Affected products include Kirkland Signature Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter and Kirkland Signature Salted Sweet Cream Butter.
Costco and the FDA have yet to provide a statement on the matter.
