MorningStar Farms has recalled select frozen plant-based products after reports that some packages may contain plastic fragments, prompting a food safety alert for consumers across the United States, Puerto Rico and Costa Rica.
The voluntary recall, announced on June 18, affects specific lots of Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties. The move came after the company received customer complaints regarding the possible presence of plastic in the products. Although no injuries have been reported, consumers are being advised not to eat the affected items and to check package details carefully.
Food recalls involving foreign materials often attract immediate attention because the products may already be stored in household freezers long after purchase. Unlike contamination linked to bacteria, foreign-object recalls focus on physical hazards that can potentially cause choking or injury if consumed.
MorningStar Farms Products Included in the Recall
The recall applies to MorningStar Farms Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets sold in 10.5-ounce bags with UPC code 000 28989 10110 5. Affected products carry “Better If Used Before” dates of July 7, 2027 and July 8, 2027.
Also included are MorningStar Farms Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties sold in 8-ounce bags with UPC code 000 28989 10094 8. Consumers should check for “Better If Used Before” dates of July 5, 2027, July 6, 2027 and July 7, 2027.
According to the company, no other MorningStar Farms products are affected by the recall. Shoppers who have similar products with different UPC codes or date markings are not included in the current notice.
Why the Recall Was Issued
The company said the recall was initiated after receiving complaints from customers who reported the possible presence of plastic in the food. While the source of the contamination was not detailed publicly, MorningStar Farms stated that it investigated the issue and identified products that may have been impacted.
Foreign-material recalls remain relatively uncommon compared with recalls involving allergens or bacterial contamination. However, food safety specialists generally recommend taking them seriously because hard fragments can present a physical hazard regardless of whether illness has been reported.
The recall also highlights the growing scrutiny facing manufacturers in the plant-based food sector. As consumer demand for meat alternatives continues to expand, brands face increasing pressure to maintain rigorous quality-control standards throughout production and packaging.
What Consumers Should Do If They Have the Products
Consumers who purchased the recalled nuggets or sausage patties should not consume them. Instead, the products should be discarded, and customers should contact the company for reimbursement.
MorningStar Farms said affected consumers are eligible for a full refund. Questions regarding the recall can be directed to MorningStar Farms Consumer Affairs by calling 800-962-0120 or texting 877-453-5837 Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET.
Consumers looking for additional food safety information can monitor updates through the FDA recalls, market withdrawals and safety alerts database.
Mars Says Quality Controls Have Been Strengthened
MorningStar Farms is owned by Mars Inc., which said protecting consumer safety remains its highest priority. In a statement, the company said it acted quickly after learning of the potential issue and has since addressed the problem.
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The company also said it has enhanced quality-control procedures to help prevent a similar incident from occurring in the future. Importantly, MorningStar Farms reported that no injuries have been linked to the recalled products.
For consumers, the recall serves as a reminder to review product packaging carefully whenever a food safety notice is issued. Frozen foods often remain in storage for extended periods, making UPC codes and best-by dates critical details when determining whether a product is affected.
The latest recall arrives amid continued attention on food safety across the grocery industry. Consumers following contamination-related recalls may also be interested in the FDA’s highest-risk Alfredo sauce recall over potential Salmonella contamination, another recent case that resulted in a widespread product withdrawal.
For now, the recall remains limited to the two MorningStar Farms products identified above. Consumers who find matching packages are encouraged to dispose of them and contact the company for a refund.
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