Introduction to the Recall
Hostess has recalled some chocolate Ding Dongs due to potential mold contamination. In a statement on its website, Hostess confirmed that it had "initiated a voluntary recall of select lots of Hostess Ding Dongs® products due to the potential for the presence of mold." The cream-filled, iced chocolate cakes are one of the company’s most popular snacks, which also include Twinkies, Ho Hos and Zingers.
The recall notice for Ding Dongs was first posted by Hostess’s parent company, J.M. Smucker Co., on Aug. 20.
Why were Hostess Ding Dongs recalled?
Certain lots of Ding Dongs were recalled because they may grow or contain mold due to an issue which occurred during the manufacturing process. An investigation confirmed that a mechanical issue with a piece of equipment could create conditions that support mold growth in Ding Dongs before the listed expiration date, Hostess said in its recall statement. The mechanical issue was temporary and was resolved in a "timely manner," the company said. No other products manufactured by J.M. Smucker Co. were impacted.
Which Ding Dongs are recalled?
The recall affects the following chocolate Ding Dongs products:
- Hostess Ding Dong 6 count: 2.55 oz twin packs, carton (15.3 oz)
UPC: Twin packs: 00888109010027 | 6 ct.: 00888109011857
Lot numbers: 5167832, 5168832 - Hostess Ding Dong 10 count: 1.28 oz, carton (12.7 oz.)
UPC: 00888109110611
Lot numbers: 5167832, 5168832, 5169832, 5170832, 5171832 - Hostess Ding Dong 16 count: 1.28 oz, carton (20.31 oz)
UPC: Individual unit: 00888109011826 | 16 ct.: 00888109110925
Lot numbers: 5167832, 5168832, 5169832, 5170832
The affected Ding Dongs have best-if-used-by dates ranging from Aug. 30, 2025 to Sept. 3, 2025. Hostess did not specify which states the affected products were sold in.
What to do if you bought Hostess Ding Dongs?
Hostess is encouraging consumers who bought Ding Dongs to check to see if the product matches the description, UPC, lot number and best-if-used-by date listed in its recall notice. If these do match, contact Hostess. Do not consume any affected products, or Ding Dongs with signs of mold growth. Instead, return the item to the store for a refund or replacement. "We are committed to your health and safety, and we follow best practices to ensure the quality and safety of the products we sell. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused," J.M. Smucker Co. said in its recall notice.
What happens if you eat mold?
Molds are a type of microscopic fungi. They’re a natural part of the environment, found almost everywhere oxygen and moisture are present, per the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. They spread by producing tiny spores, which can land on food and grow in the right conditions. Mold on food is typically a sign of spoilage, though some foods like cheese are made with mold. Food mold comes in many different colors, including blue, green, black or grey. The mold may look fuzzy, velvety or powdery. In most cases, nothing will happen if you accidentally eat a small amount of mold, food safety experts previously told TODAY.com. For the average person, it won’t cause any symptoms or illness. However, eating large quantities may cause gastrointestinal upset, and certain types of food mold can cause allergic reactions or respiratory problems. Some toxic molds produce poisonous substances called mycotoxins, which can make you very sick, TODAY.com reported previously. Hostess did not specify which type of mold may grow on the recalled Ding Dongs. However, it’s impossible to tell which type of mold is growing on food just by looking at it, which is why experts recommend people avoid eating food spoiled with mold. Mold can penetrate much deeper than what you see growing, so cutting off the visibly moldy parts may not get rid of it. Instead, throw away the entire product and wash your hands thoroughly.
Conclusion
The recall of Hostess Ding Dongs due to potential mold contamination is a precautionary measure to ensure consumer safety. It is essential for consumers to check their products and follow the instructions provided by Hostess to avoid any potential health risks. By being aware of the recall and taking the necessary steps, consumers can protect themselves and their families from the potential harm caused by moldy food products.
FAQs
- Q: What is the reason for the Hostess Ding Dongs recall?
A: The recall is due to the potential presence of mold in certain lots of Hostess Ding Dongs products. - Q: Which products are affected by the recall?
A: The recall affects certain lots of chocolate Ding Dongs products, including 6 count, 10 count, and 16 count packages. - Q: What should I do if I have purchased affected products?
A: Consumers should check the product description, UPC, lot number, and best-if-used-by date to see if it matches the recall notice. If it does, contact Hostess and return the product to the store for a refund or replacement. - Q: What happens if I eat mold?
A: In most cases, eating a small amount of mold will not cause any symptoms or illness. However, eating large quantities may cause gastrointestinal upset, and certain types of food mold can cause allergic reactions or respiratory problems. - Q: How can I protect myself from moldy food products?
A: Consumers can protect themselves by checking their products for signs of mold, following proper food handling and storage procedures, and being aware of recalls and food safety alerts.
