Your evening indulgence might need a second look following a nationwide health alert involving a popular artisanal treat. A North Carolina company is recalling chocolate bars sold online and in stores across the United States after potential salmonella contamination was detected. Health officials are urging consumers to check their pantries and avoid the affected products. Keep reading to see which chocolate bars are included in the recall and what steps to take if you have any.
Spring & Mulberry recalls chocolate bars
Spring & Mulberry, a confectionery brand based in Raleigh, North Carolina, has officially initiated a voluntary recall of a specific batch of its Mint Leaf Date-Sweetened Chocolate Bars. The move comes after proactive safety screenings flagged a potential risk that has put both the company and federal regulators on high alert.
The safety concern was first identified during a series of routine quality control checks. According to a formal announcement released by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a third-party laboratory conducted scheduled testing that indicated a potential for Salmonella contamination. While the company maintains that this is a precautionary measure to “protect public health,” the discovery was significant enough to halt sales and pull existing stock from the market immediately.
The recall is strictly limited to a specific production run, but because these bars are distributed across multiple channels, consumers are urged to check their labels. Here are the specific details you need to look for:
- Product Name: Mint Leaf Date-Sweetened Chocolate Bar (2.1-ounce)
- Packaging: Distinctive teal-colored box.
- Lot Number: 025255
- Location of Codes: You can find the lot number printed on the exterior cardboard box as well as the inner foil wrapper.
These chocolate bars have been available for purchase since September 15, 2025. Because Spring & Mulberry operates a robust e-commerce platform alongside partnerships with “select retailers nationwide,” the affected product could be anywhere from a local boutique shelf to a kitchen cabinet halfway across the country.
The silver lining in this developing story is the timing of the intervention. Spring & Mulberry reported that, as of the latest update, no illnesses or adverse reactions have been linked to the chocolate. By acting on the laboratory findings before reports of sickness surfaced, the company aims to neutralize the threat to consumers before it escalates.
What you should do with the recalled chocolate bars
Health officials are strongly advising consumers who have purchased the affected Mint Leaf Date-Sweetened Chocolate Bars to avoid eating them under any circumstances. To ensure safety, the FDA recommends discarding the chocolate bars immediately to prevent any risk of illness.
For those seeking reimbursement, Spring & Mulberry is offering full refunds for the recalled products. Customers can request a refund by contacting the company directly via email, providing proof of purchase and the lot number of the affected chocolate bars. Following these steps will help consumers protect themselves while also assisting the company in managing the recall efficiently.
How serious is Salmonella?
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause serious infections, and in some cases, these infections can be life-threatening. Certain groups are especially vulnerable, including young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Even otherwise healthy individuals can experience significant discomfort if infected.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection typically include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. While most cases resolve within a week with proper care and hydration, more severe complications can occur in rare situations. According to the recall announcement, “infection can, in rare cases, spread to the bloodstream, leading to severe conditions such as arterial infections (including infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.”
Due to the potential risks, health officials emphasize the importance of taking recalls seriously and avoiding the consumption of any products linked to Salmonella. Prompt medical attention is recommended for anyone who develops severe symptoms after exposure, particularly those in high-risk groups.
Source: Fox Business