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A serious food safety alert has been issued in the United States after the United States Department of Agriculture warned consumers about a mislabeled pasta product sold at Costco Wholesale. The issue involves undeclared shellfish allergens in refrigerated ravioli, raising concerns for people with food allergies across multiple states.
The alert specifically affects a popular refrigerated pasta product distributed in select Costco locations, and consumers are being urged to check their refrigerators immediately.
What the USDA Food Safety Alert Is About
The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), a division of the United States Department of Agriculture, issued a public health alert after discovering a labeling error in a refrigerated pasta product.
The affected product is:
- Giovanni Rana Rustic Beef Sauce & Creamy Burrata Cheese Ravioli
- Pack size: 32-ounce refrigerated package
- Use-by dates: May 14 to June 25, 2026
- Establishment number: “44870” inside USDA inspection mark
The product was sold at select Costco Wholesale locations in Maryland and New Jersey.
Why This Costco Pasta Alert Matters
The issue is not a traditional contamination problem, but a misbranding and undeclared allergen risk.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture:
- The ravioli labeled as beef and burrata cheese may actually contain:
- Shrimp filling
- Lobster sauce
- These ingredients are not listed on the packaging
- Both shrimp and lobster are classified as major food allergens
This means consumers with shellfish allergies could unknowingly consume a dangerous product.
Health Risk: Why Undeclared Allergens Are Serious
Food allergens are one of the most critical food safety risks because reactions can happen quickly and become severe.
Shellfish allergies, in particular, may trigger:
- Hives or skin reactions
- Nausea and stomach pain
- Dizziness or headaches
- Swelling in the throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Severe cases: anaphylaxis
While no confirmed allergic reactions have been reported so far, the risk is still considered serious enough for a nationwide public alert.
Why This Was Not a Full Recall
The USDA confirmed that a formal recall was not requested because:
- The product is no longer being sold in stores
- The issue was identified after distribution ended
- Remaining risk exists only for consumers who already purchased it
Instead, it has been classified as a public health alert, which still requires immediate consumer attention.
What Costco Customers Should Do Now
If you shop at Costco Wholesale, you should take the following steps:
1. Check Your Refrigerator Immediately
Look for:
- Giovanni Rana Rustic Beef Sauce & Creamy Burrata Cheese Ravioli
- 32-ounce refrigerated packaging
- Use-by dates between May 14 and June 25, 2026
- USDA inspection mark with “44870”
2. Do Not Consume the Product If Found
Even if you are not allergic to shellfish, mislabeling raises safety concerns.
3. Dispose or Return
You can:
- Throw it away safely
- Return it to Costco for a refund
Who Is Most at Risk
This alert is especially important for:
- Individuals with known shellfish allergies
- Families with children who may have food sensitivities
- Households that rely on packaged refrigerated meals
Because the allergen is not declared, even small amounts can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
What the USDA Is Saying
The United States Department of Agriculture stated that the issue came to light after two consumer complaints, which led to further investigation.
Officials emphasized that while no illnesses have been reported, consumers should treat the situation seriously and verify any affected packages at home.
Contact Information for Consumers
If you have questions about the affected product:
- Company contact: April Klein, Rana Meal Solutions
Email: [email protected]
For food safety concerns:
- USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline: 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854)
- Email: [email protected]
This Costco pasta alert highlights how labeling errors can create hidden health risks, especially when it comes to undeclared allergens like shellfish.
If you recently purchased refrigerated ravioli from Costco Wholesale, it’s worth checking your package right away. Even though no illnesses have been reported, the warning from the United States Department of Agriculture makes it clear that caution is necessary.
Food safety alerts like this serve as a reminder that even trusted brands can experience distribution or labeling issues, and staying informed is the best way to stay safe.