Costco pulls popular chocolate over packaging error that mislabels wheat allergen

Costco is offering refunds after a manufacturer recalled a popular chocolate snack sold in its stores because of a packaging error that misidentified a potential allergen.

Rolling Pin Baking Company announced a recall of its Dubai Style Chocolate on Costco’s website last week after discovering that the ingredient statement on some packages listed "gluten" rather than "wheat." The company said the mistake could present a risk to consumers with wheat allergies. The affected packages can be identified by code #1932972 printed above the barcode; they were sold at Costco stores between May 1 and Aug. 29.

Rolling Pin’s quality assurance director, Eddie Dayan, said in a statement that the company "assess[es] the health risk to be minimal as gluten is listed on the allergen statement and gluten is found in wheat." The company instructed customers who bought the recalled product to return it to Costco for a full refund. Anyone experiencing allergic symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing or nausea was urged to seek emergency care and call 911.

Costco employees and shoppers had noted strong demand for the Dubai Style Chocolate since it began appearing on shelves. Veronica Thatcher, a Costco employee, said the item sold out within two days when first stocked and that many customers come specifically to buy it. There have been no reported illnesses or deaths linked to the recalled chocolate, the company added.

The recall follows other product advisories issued by Costco this year. The chain previously warned consumers about several items, including salsas potentially contaminated with wood believed to originate from cilantro grown by SubHerb Farms in Turlock, California. Costco has also advised customers to stop using certain Anker power banks over concerns about lithium-ion battery cells sourced from specific vendors and recalled BowFlex adjustable dumbbells after reports that weight plates could dislodge from handles during use.

Rolling Pin Baking Company posted the recall notice on Costco’s website and said it discovered the labeling error during a routine review. Daily Mail and other outlets reported the recall and said they had contacted Rolling Pin Baking Company for additional comment; the company had not provided an update at the time of those reports.

Customers who believe they purchased the affected Dubai Style Chocolate should check their packages for code #1932972 above the barcode and return them to their local Costco for a refund. Health officials and the manufacturer continue to advise that consumers with known wheat allergies take precautions and seek medical help if they experience signs of an allergic reaction.