What Hummus Fans Should Know About Costco's Recent Recall
Product recalls in the food industry understandably make big news, especially when announced by a major retailer like Costco. Since 1995, the company has branded all its private label products under the Kirkland Signature name, saving customers up to 20% over other branded alternatives, explains CNN. But due to the widespread store presence of products bearing its Kirkland Signature private label, Costco may take a direct hit when food safety issues force recalls and removals — such as the recent Food Safety Notice for hummus sent to Costco members on October 20, 2022.
As of 2022, Costco has a total of 840 warehouses worldwide, with 578 of these locations positioned in 46 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, according to the corporate profile. Membership data shows almost 120 million cardholders shopping across the globe, giving product recalls a potentially wide reach.
But the private label items often originate from other well-known brands relabeled for Costco consumers, which appears to be the case with the recent Costco recall of hummus, based on the company's safety notice.
Directing the safety notice to Costco club members who purchased the affected product between September 21, 2022 and October 18, 2022, Costco announced the recall of Kirkland Signature Pine Nut Hummus. The item's recall is limited to a single code date, identified as "Best Before NOV 26 2022." Consumers can find the date on the lid of the container.
What's the problem?
According to the safety notice, the problem lies in the pine nut topping, which developed mold issues, forcing product removal and notification of customers. As is customary with recalled products, consumers can bring the purchased hummus back to Costco for a full refund.
This recall may come as a disappointment to many hummus fans, as the well-loved Kirkland Signature organic hummus products receive high ratings in comparison tests, such as the Washington Post taste test of 11 store-bought hummus products. Kirkland Signature Organic Hummus came in second place, topped only by Trader Joe's branded hummus.
Though released by Costco, the food safety recall is signed by Cedar's Mediterranean Foods, which operates out of Ward Hill, Massachusetts. The company specializes in making hummus, tzatziki, salads, chips, and various dips. A year ago, on October 25, 2021, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a recall of the Cedar's Organic Mediterranean Hommus due to an undeclared pine nut allergen and incorrect back label.
Customers with questions or concerns regarding the 2022 Costco hummus recall have been directed to reach out during business hours (EST) to Shelly Brown, the quality control manager of Cedar's Mediterranean Foods, at 978-372-8010, extension 2221, or send an email to hello@cedarsfoods.com.