A new bread recall is raising concern for shoppers across the South and Midwest. Hartford Bakery Inc., based in Indiana, pulled hundreds of loaves from Kroger, Walmart, and affiliated stores after discovering undeclared hazelnuts in specific batches. This action affects consumers in 12 states, including Indiana and Ohio. Although no hospitalizations have occurred, the potential for allergic reactions has led to an urgent response.
Hartford Bakery issued the recall after finding that several production lots of its Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style ½ Loaf contained hazelnuts. However, the packaging failed to list hazelnuts explicitly. While the label included a general “May Contain Tree Nuts” warning, it did not specify the actual ingredient. People with hazelnut allergies rely on clear labeling to avoid serious health risks. One customer experienced digestive discomfort, and others saw visible nuts in the bread. Even though no severe allergic reactions have been confirmed, the risk remains high.
This bread recall emphasizes the importance of clear food labeling and transparent ingredient disclosure. Since many affected loaves already reached store shelves and home pantries, both the company and food safety officials urge consumers to check their products immediately and respond accordingly.
These States Received the Recalled Bread
Retailers sold the recalled bread in 12 states, mainly through Kroger, Walmart, and related grocery chains. These states include:
- Indiana
- Ohio
- Michigan
- Illinois
- Wisconsin
- Kentucky
- Tennessee
- Missouri
- Georgia
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Mississippi
Because these retailers operate under different store names, the recall may have impacted a broader customer base than initially expected. Therefore, if you shopped at any of these locations recently, take a moment to inspect your bread.
Here’s How to Identify the Recalled Bread
To help customers determine whether their loaf is part of the bread recall, Hartford Bakery shared key identifying details. Look for the following:
- Lot codes:
- T10 174010206
- T10 174010306
- T10 174010406
- T10 174020206
- T10 174020306
- T10 174020406
- UPC: 24126018152
- Net weight: 12 oz (340g)
- Expiration date: July 13, 2025
If your bread matches any of these lot numbers, do not eat it. The presence of hazelnuts, even in small amounts, can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Instead, prepare to return the product for a refund.
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What You Should Do If You Bought This Bread
Once you identify the recalled product, take immediate action. First, stop using the bread. Even if no one in your household has a nut allergy, serving the product to guests or sharing it with others could still pose a risk.
Next, return the affected loaf to the store where you purchased it. Hartford Bakery is offering full refunds for returned products. If you have questions or concerns, contact the company directly at (812) 425‑4642, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. CST.
By taking these steps, you help protect not only your household but also your broader community. Sharing the recall information with friends, coworkers, or relatives may prevent a dangerous allergic reaction for someone else.
Why This Recall Highlights a Bigger Issue
This bread recall draws attention to an ongoing challenge in food manufacturing: accurate allergen labeling. Federal law requires food companies to clearly identify major allergens on product packaging. However, vague warnings such as “May Contain Tree Nuts” don’t offer enough clarity when the product contains a specific ingredient like hazelnuts.
Consumers with food allergies depend on specific and transparent labels. In this case, visible hazelnuts in the product should have triggered a more precise label. Although Hartford Bakery responded quickly by recalling the affected lots, this incident shows how vital it is for manufacturers to follow strict labeling practices from the start.
Thankfully, No Severe Reactions Yet
So far, the bread recall has not led to any confirmed medical emergencies. One consumer experienced mild symptoms, and others noticed hazelnuts before eating the bread. While that’s fortunate, it doesn’t mean the risk is over.
Hazelnut allergies can escalate quickly, with symptoms ranging from hives and swelling to difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis. If you or someone in your home ate the recalled bread and starts showing signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
Taking the threat seriously, even without current injuries, can save lives.
Stay Alert and Take Action
Recalls like this serve as important reminders to stay alert when purchasing and consuming packaged foods. If you live in one of the 12 affected states, take a few minutes to inspect your bread. Check for the listed lot codes, UPC, and expiration date. If you find a match, return the product and collect your refund.
By spreading the word, you also help others avoid possible harm. Encourage friends and family to check their pantries too, especially if they shop at Kroger, Walmart, or associated chains.
The faster consumers act, the more effective this bread recall becomes at preventing real-world consequences. Let this be a lesson in vigilance, clear labeling, and community awareness.
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