Spring & Mulberry Recalls Mint Leaf Date-Sweetened Chocolate Bar Nationwide Over Possible Salmonella
Spring & Mulberry issued a nationwide voluntary recall on Jan. 12, 2026, for lot #025255 of its Mint Leaf Date‑Sweetened Chocolate Bar (72% cacao, 2.1 oz) after third‑party testing flagged possible Salmonella contamination. Consumers are urged not to eat the product.
Key takeaways
- Affected product: Mint Leaf Date‑Sweetened Chocolate Bar (72% cacao), 2.1‑ounce, lot #025255.
- Why recalled: Routine third‑party lab testing indicated possible Salmonella contamination in that lot.
- Action for consumers: Do not eat the bars; request a refund by emailing recalls@springandmulberry.com with a photo of the lot code.
- Distribution: Sold nationwide online (including Amazon) and at select retailers beginning Sept. 15, 2025; only lot #025255 is affected.
What was recalled
Spring & Mulberry is voluntarily recalling only lot #025255 of its Mint Leaf Date‑Sweetened Chocolate Bar (2.1‑ounce) in teal packaging. The lot code appears on the back of the box and on the inner flow wrap of each bar. The bars were sold online (including Amazon) and at select retailers nationwide beginning Sept. 15, 2025.
Company statement: The recall is voluntary and proactive after third‑party testing raised safety concerns related to a specific lot.
Why the recall was issued
Routine testing by a third‑party laboratory detected the potential for Salmonella contamination in lot #025255. Spring & Mulberry said it is recalling the lot to protect public health and described the action as proactive while it works with regulatory authorities.
The FDA recall page and national reporting provide further details and consumer guidance: FDA recall page, Fox Business, ABC News, Consumer Reports, and AARP.
No illnesses reported so far
Federal and company notices state there have been no reports of illness tied to the recalled lot as of the recall announcement. Public health agencies often act on positive test results to prevent potential outbreaks.
Health risks and Salmonella symptoms
Salmonella infection can cause gastrointestinal illness. Symptoms typically appear 6 hours to 6 days after exposure and may include:
- Fever
- Diarrhea (which may be bloody)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain or cramps
Most healthy people recover within 4–7 days, but young children, older adults, pregnant people, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for severe disease. Seek immediate care for high fever (≥102°F), bloody stools, or severe dehydration.
What consumers should do now
If you have the Spring & Mulberry Mint Leaf Date‑Sweetened Chocolate Bar, check the lot code printed on the back of the box and the inner flow wrap. Take these steps:
- Do not eat the product if it is lot #025255. Discard it or return it to the place of purchase.
- Request a refund: Email recalls@springandmulberry.com with a photo of the lot code to request reimbursement.
- Monitor your health: If anyone develops symptoms consistent with Salmonella, contact a health care provider and mention possible exposure to the recalled chocolate.
Distribution, timeline and retail partners
The affected bars entered the market on Sept. 15, 2025. They were sold nationwide via Spring & Mulberry’s online store, Amazon, and select retailers. The FDA notice and reporting do not list every retail partner; consumers should check purchase history and packaging to confirm whether they purchased lot #025255.
Investigative questions and company response
Spring & Mulberry described the recall as voluntary and proactive. The company has not publicly detailed the origin of the potential contamination or whether testing detected live bacteria versus genetic material. Media outlets report the company has not responded to all comment requests; the FDA recall page summarizes the action without further test-result specifics.
FDA context and recent actions
The FDA regularly posts recalls and safety alerts when testing or reports indicate potential risks. Recent agency actions have addressed separate issues such as Listeria in cheese and foreign-material contamination in frozen foods, underscoring continuous monitoring of the food supply.
Implications for San Diego, California
Economic impact
The recall is unlikely to disrupt major food supply chains in San Diego because the product was sold primarily through specialty channels. Still, small retailers and cafes that carried the bar may face returns and lost sales, and staff will need to check inventory and process refunds.
Public health and health care providers
San Diego clinicians should remain alert for patients with unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms. When Salmonella is suspected, providers may ask about recent purchases of specialty chocolate bars and advise testing or treatment as needed.
Retail and consumer behavior
Shoppers who favor artisanal or small‑batch products may contact vendors or check receipts to confirm whether they purchased the affected lot. Retailers should prepare clear signage and staff guidance to help customers identify and return recalled items.
Practical steps for San Diego residents
- Check pantry items and order histories (including Amazon) for purchases after Sept. 15, 2025.
- If you have lot #025255, discard it or request a refund by emailing recalls@springandmulberry.com with a photo of the lot code.
- If symptoms develop, call your health care provider; seek emergency care for severe signs like dehydration, high fever (≥102°F), or bloody diarrhea.
Where to get official information
For official guidance, consult the FDA recall page. Additional reporting is available from Fox Business, ABC News, Consumer Reports, and AARP.
Sources and reporting
This article draws on the company recall notice and federal reporting, including the FDA recall page and national coverage from Fox Business, ABC News, Consumer Reports, and AARP.
