A popular dessert has become a source of concern as a massive recall sweeps across the nation.

Over 136,000 pies have been recalled urgently nationwide due to an undeclared allergen. This recall highlights the critical importance of accurate food labeling and the potential consequences when ingredients are not properly disclosed.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has initiated a Class II recall on Jessie Lord Bakery pies after discovering the presence of Yellow #5 food dye, a substance known to pose health risks for sensitive individuals.

Jessie Lord Bakery, a supplier to major retailers, including Walmart, is at the center of this recall. The affected pies, specifically the 8-inch lemon meringue pies (including sugar-free versions), were found to contain Yellow #5, an artificial coloring agent.

The presence of this undeclared ingredient prompted the official Class II recall. FDA experts have issued warnings, emphasizing that consumers with sensitivities could experience allergic reactions ranging from mild hives to more severe breathing difficulties or other adverse effects.

Each pie weighs approximately 27 ounces and was distributed to Walmart stores in 14 states across the country, including major markets such as California, New York, Florida, and Texas. This widespread distribution means a significant number of consumers could potentially be at risk.

The recalled products are identifiable by lot numbers ranging from 24050 through 25231. Consumers are strongly urged to check the lot number on any Jessie Lord Bakery lemon meringue pies they may have purchased.

Adding to the urgency, these pies have a "best by" date of February 19, 2027. This extended shelf life means many of the affected pies may still be in consumers' refrigerators or pantries, unknowingly posing a risk.

The recall originates from Jessie Lord Bakery, LLC, a California-based manufacturer. The company is cooperating with the FDA to address the issue and ensure the safety of consumers.

The FDA is advising anyone who has purchased these recalled pies to either dispose of them immediately or return them to the store where they were purchased for a full refund. This proactive measure aims to minimize potential harm to consumers.

The recall encompasses four distinct types of lemon meringue pies, as detailed in the FDA's official notice. Consumers should carefully examine the product information to determine if they possess any of the affected items.

Specific products under recall include Jessie's Lemon Meringue Pie with item code 31811 1 and UPC 8 85523 31811 1, as well as Jessie's Lemon Meringue Pie Sugar Free with item code 30811 and UPC 8 85523 30811 2.

Another variation of Jessie's Lemon Meringue Pie, identified by item code 08276 and UPC 0 41512 08275 7, is also part of the recall. This highlights the importance of checking not only the brand name but also the specific item code and UPC.

The First Street Lemon Meringue Pie, sold under a separate label with item code 84232 and UPC 000 41220 84232 2, is also included in the recall, demonstrating that private-label products are equally susceptible to such issues.

Amidst the recall, a law firm has announced its readiness to assist consumers in pursuing legal action. This firm encourages individuals who have purchased the recalled pies to explore their legal options.

According to the firm's website, affected consumers may be eligible to file claims for medical expenses, refunds, and compensation for emotional distress. This reflects the potential financial and emotional burden caused by food recalls.

Yellow #5, also known as tartrazine, is a synthetic food coloring widely used in various products, extending beyond just pies. It can be found in some lotions, shampoos, and makeup.

The dye is also prevalent in soft drinks, energy drinks, powdered drink mixes, fruit cordials, and certain flavored alcoholic beverages. This highlights the ubiquity of Yellow #5 in the modern diet.

Furthermore, Yellow #5 is frequently used in ice cream, ice pops, hard candies, gummy bears, marshmallows, cotton candy, and instant puddings. These are all treats often favored by children, raising concerns about potential exposure in this vulnerable population.

Even common baking ingredients like cake mixes, pastries, imitation lemon fillings, biscuits, and cookies may contain Yellow #5. This underscores the importance of reading ingredient labels carefully, even for seemingly harmless products.

Savory snacks like flavored corn chips, popcorn, and potato chips sometimes utilize Yellow #5 to enhance their appearance. This demonstrates that the dye is not limited to sweet foods alone.

Condiments such as mustard, horseradish, pickles, and some processed sauces may also contain Yellow #5. This illustrates how widespread the use of this artificial coloring agent has become in the food industry.

Finally, cereals, instant soups, and flavored rice dishes can also contain Yellow #5. This highlights the need for consumers to be vigilant in checking ingredient lists across a wide range of food categories.

The law firm has encouraged anyone who experienced an allergic reaction or incurred any harm as a result of consuming the recalled pies to pursue a liability lawsuit. This emphasizes the potential for legal recourse in cases of food-related illness or injury.

Depending on the specific state, the firm suggests that consumers may have up to four years to initiate a lawsuit. This timeframe is subject to statutes of limitations, which vary by jurisdiction.

According to medical sources, the health risks associated with Yellow #5, or tartrazine, can include itching and hives. These are common symptoms of allergic reactions, indicating the body's immune system is responding to a foreign substance.

While this food coloring is approved for general use with certain restrictions, the FDA mandates that manufacturers clearly list it on the product label. This requirement aims to provide consumers with the information they need to make informed choices.

Due to the potential risks associated with this product, the FDA classified the recall as Class II, indicating that exposure to the product could cause adverse health consequences for individuals with an allergy or sensitivity to Yellow #5.

In related news, it was reported in April 2025 that the FDA is planning to eliminate six synthetic dyes by the end of 2026. This reflects a growing concern about the potential health effects of artificial food colorings and a move towards safer alternatives.

As Health & Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. stated, "For too long, some food producers have been feeding Americans petroleum-based chemicals without their knowledge or consent.” This statement underscores the concern that consumers may be unknowingly exposed to potentially harmful substances.

Secretary Kennedy further emphasized, "These poisonous compounds offer no nutritional benefit and pose real, measurable dangers to our children’s health and development.” This highlights the potential long-term consequences of consuming artificial food colorings, particularly for children.

FDA Commissioner Marty Makary added, “We have a new epidemic of childhood diabetes, obesity, depression, and ADHD.” This statement connects the consumption of artificial food colorings to broader public health concerns.

Commissioner Makary concluded, "Given the growing concerns of doctors and parents about the potential role of petroleum-based food dyes, we should not be taking risks and do everything possible to safeguard the health of our children." This call to action emphasizes the need for caution and proactive measures to protect the health of children and the public at large.