FDA Recall Alert: Para Bien Al Grano Bread Contains Undeclared Sesame Allergen
Pan Pepín Inc. has issued a voluntary recall of select Para Bien Al Grano bread loaves after the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) determined that the product contains sesame that is not declared on the ingredient label. Individuals who are allergic or highly sensitive to sesame could experience a serious—potentially life-threatening—allergic reaction. Do not consume the recalled bread; instead, return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or dispose of it safely.
Recalled Para Bien Al Grano Bread Lots & Dates
The recall applies to the 20-oz Para Bien Al Grano bread sold at retailers across Puerto Rico. Affected information:
- Product name: Para Bien Al Grano Bread
- Package UPC: 0 21425 01513 4
| Sell-By Date (MM/DD/YY) | Lot Code |
|---|---|
| 10/12/23 | 3B1 274 |
| 10/14/23 | 3B1 277 |
| 10/15/23 | 3B1 278 |
| 10/17/23 | 3B1 280 |
| 10/18/23 | 3B1 281 |
| 10/19/23 | 3B1 282 |
| 10/21/23 | 3B1 284 |
Sources
Why Undeclared Sesame Poses a Health Risk
Sesame became the ninth major allergen recognized under the U.S. Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) on January 1, 2023. In sensitive consumers, even trace amounts can cause:
- Life-threatening anaphylaxis (throat tightness, difficulty breathing, sudden drop in blood pressure)
- Skin reactions such as hives, itching, or swelling
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea
What Consumers Should Do Now
- Locate the UPC and sell-by date on any Para Bien Al Grano bread in your home.
- If the loaf matches the recalled information and you have a sesame allergy, do not eat it.
- Return the product to the retailer for a full refund or discard it in a sealed bag to avoid cross-contact.
- Contact Pan Pepín Inc. with questions at ity@delacruz.com or (787) 405-6045.
Company Statement
“At Pan Pepín Inc., consumer safety and transparency are our top priorities. We regret any inconvenience this recall may cause and are removing affected products from shelves while strengthening allergen-label verification to prevent future incidents.”
Official Recall Images
Para Bien Al Grano Recall FAQ
1. Which Para Bien Al Grano bread lots are under recall?
Sell-by dates 10/12/23, 10/14/23, 10/15/23, 10/17/23, 10/18/23, 10/19/23, and 10/21/23 with lot codes 3B1 274–284 are affected.
2. Where was the recalled Para Bien Al Grano bread distributed?
All recalled loaves were shipped to supermarkets and convenience stores throughout Puerto Rico.
3. I don’t have a sesame allergy—must I still return Para Bien Al Grano bread?
Although risk is minimal for consumers without a sesame allergy, Pan Pepín Inc. and the FDA recommend returning or discarding the product to ensure no allergic individuals are exposed.
4. How can I obtain a refund for the Para Bien Al Grano recall?
Bring the bread—or a purchase receipt—to the store where you bought it. Retailers have been instructed to issue full refunds at customer-service counters.
5. Will future Para Bien Al Grano products be safe for sesame-allergic customers?
Yes. Pan Pepín Inc. has updated its allergen-control program. Future batches will either omit sesame or declare it clearly on the label, in line with FALCPA requirements.
6. Can I contact Pan Pepín Inc. for more details about the Para Bien Al Grano recall?
Absolutely. Call (787) 405-6045 or email ity@delacruz.com for direct assistance.