Why did the FDA issue a Class II risk for Horizon Organic Milk recall? Reasons explained

Milk brand Horizon Organic Dairy recalled one of its products on December 13, 2024, due to concerns about premature spoilage. The recall has now been labeled as a Class II risk by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The product in question is the Horizon Organic Aseptic Plain Whole Milk. A total of 19,688 cases were recalled, with expiration dates as follows:

• · 8,654 cases - March 3, 2025
• · 7,385 cases - March 4, 2025
• · 1,781 cases - March 6, 2025
• · 1,868 cases - March 7, 2025

These products were distributed in Arizona, California, and Nevada. The recall involved 8oz milk cartons, including both single cartons and 12-packs. The 12-packs had a UPC of 3663207113, while single cartons had a UPC of 3663207127. They have an SKU 630205.

According to a report in Newsweek, on January 17, 2025, the FDA categorized it as a Class II risk, which is assigned when a product could cause temporary or medically reversible health issues, but the chance of serious health problems is unlikely.

It must be noted that a Class II risk is less severe than a Class I risk. According to Forbes no illnesses have been reported and CVS Pharmacy was among the first to alert customers about the issue.

Customers who have purchased the product must stop using it immediately and return it to CVS Pharmacy for a full refund. The recall, dated December 17, 2024, was issued as a precaution against potential spoilage. It is advised to compare the carton’s lot code with the affected ones listed above.

In case they match, it is advised not to use the product. Customers can take the product back to CVS Pharmacy or contact their customer service for help.

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What we know about Horizon Organic Milk

As per its website, Horizon Organic has been America’s first organic milk brand since 1991. It is committed to doing dairy differently. The brand’s focus spans from sustainable farming practices to the well-being of the cows.

Each year, the pasture-raised cows get at least 120 days outdoors in fresh air, grazing on an organic, non-GMO diet. They are never given antibiotics or added growth hormones. Additionally, the farmers avoid using prohibited pesticides on their land. The brand describes the milk as:

“Made with real Horizon Organic® milk, our on-the-go single serve milk boxes travel anywhere, from the park to sports practice. With 8g protein per serving, they’re lunchbox superstars too. SAFE TO STORE AT ROOM TEMPERATURE. REFRIGERATE AFTER OPENING. DO NOT MICROWAVE.”

According to Black Enterprise, customers who bought the recalled milk can return it to any CVS Pharmacy for a full refund, with no receipt needed. Horizon Organic emphasized its commitment to customer health and safety, stating that the recall was a voluntary step to uphold the highest quality standards.

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Product recalls play a vital role in ensuring safety and trust. Spoilage in dairy products can result from production, storage, or distribution issues. Horizon Organic and CVS Pharmacy are reportedly collaborating with authorities to identify the cause and prevent similar problems in the future.