Unexpected Recall Alert: Popular Non-Dairy Creamer Contains Hidden Allergens

A Chinese-imported “non-dairy” creamer has been recalled after the FDA issued its highest risk alert when the product was found to contain undisclosed milk ingredients, putting thousands of allergy sufferers at serious risk.

Key Insights

MO-CHA brand Premium Non-Dairy Creamer has been voluntarily recalled due to undeclared milk ingredients, triggering the FDA’s highest risk classification
Despite being labeled as “non-dairy,” the product contains milk derivatives like casein and whey powder that can cause severe allergic reactions
Approximately 4,500 cases were distributed across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut
The product comes from China and is imported by Momo Tea Inc. of Maspeth, New York
The recall affects all units currently on the market with no specific lot codes

FDA Issues Highest Risk Alert for “Non-Dairy” Creamer

MO-CHA brand Premium Non-Dairy Creamer has been voluntarily recalled after FDA officials classified it as a Class I risk – the agency’s highest alert level. The product, which is marketed as “non-dairy,” actually contains milk-derived ingredients including casein and whey powder. These ingredients were not properly disclosed as milk allergens on the product label, creating a potentially life-threatening situation for consumers with milk allergies who might reasonably assume a “non-dairy” product would be safe for consumption.

The imported Chinese product is distributed by Momo Tea Inc., based in Maspeth, New York. Packaged in 2.2-pound bags with a two-year shelf life, approximately 4,500 cases have been distributed throughout the Northeast, specifically across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. The recall, which was initiated on April 10 with the FDA’s official classification released on April 22, affects all units currently on the market regardless of lot code or production date.

Serious Health Risks for Allergy Sufferers

For individuals with milk allergies, consuming this mislabeled product could trigger severe allergic reactions or potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis. The Class I recall designation indicates the highest level of health risk – reserved for situations where there is reasonable probability that consuming the product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. Unlike less severe allergen recalls, this classification underscores the significant danger this product poses to vulnerable consumers.

“Every three minutes in the United States, someone ends up in an emergency room because of an allergic reaction after accidental ingestion of food. So even when we try hard, these reactions are happening. And if you look at the incidence of anaphylaxis, it has skyrocketed in the last 5, 10, 20 years. And in the U.S., there’s like a 300 to 400 percent increase in the rates of anaphylaxis to foods.” – Dr. Sebastian Lighvani

Medical experts have confirmed the serious nature of this allergen risk. The presence of whey proteins in particular can trigger dangerous reactions in those with milk sensitivities, and these allergies affect a substantial portion of the American population. Consumers with known milk allergies are strongly advised to avoid using this product entirely to prevent potential allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.

Growing Pattern of Food Safety Concerns

This serious recall comes as food-related allergic reactions have been increasing dramatically in the United States. Medical professionals have noted the alarming rise in food-induced anaphylaxis over recent decades, highlighting the critical importance of accurate allergen labeling on food products. The mislabeling of the MO-CHA creamer represents a particularly concerning case, as consumers specifically seeking non-dairy alternatives may be unknowingly exposing themselves to dangerous allergens.

“Whey proteins can cause serious reactions in those with milk allergies…Milk allergy affects two to three percent of children in the U.S., and one to two percent of adults in the U.S.” – Dr. Anne Marie Singh

This recall remains ongoing according to the FDA’s notice. Consumers who have purchased MO-CHA brand Premium Non-Dairy Creamer should check their pantries and immediately discard any product they find. Those with milk allergies who may have consumed this product should be alert for symptoms of allergic reaction and seek immediate medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms. The FDA continues to monitor the recall process to ensure all affected products are removed from store shelves.