Spring & Mulberry Chocolate Recall: Salmonella Contamination Alert

Details of the recall

Spring & Mulberry, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, issued a voluntary recall limited to a single lot of its Mint Leaf Date-Sweetened Chocolate Bars after a routine test by an independent laboratory raised a potential Salmonella concern. The recall applies only to lot #025255 of the 2.1-ounce bars in teal boxes; other products are not impacted. The FDA recall notice lists the company’s notice and classifies the recall as a potential foodborne illness risk.

How the product was sold and where to look

The bars were distributed online — including through Amazon — and at select specialty grocers and retailers nationwide beginning Sept. 15, 2025. Shoppers should check the lot code printed on the back of the teal box and on the inner flow wrap. Only lot #025255 is part of this recall. If you are unsure whether your purchase matches the recalled lot, contact the retailer where you bought it or email the company at recalls@springandmulberry.com with a photo of the lot code to request a refund (Consumer Reports; ABC News).

Salmonella contamination risks and health advice

Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause foodborne illness. Symptoms usually appear between 6 hours and 6 days after exposure and may include fever, diarrhea (possibly bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Most healthy people recover in four to seven days, but infections can be severe for young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Rare complications include bloodstream infections and reactive arthritis. Seek immediate medical care for high fever (102°F or higher), severe dehydration, or bloody stools (Consumer Reports; AARP).

Consumer actions and company response

Do not eat the recalled product. Spring & Mulberry advised consumers to either dispose of affected bars or seek refunds. To request a refund, email recalls@springandmulberry.com and include a clear photograph of the lot code on the packaging. The FDA recall notice lists product details and distribution information. As of the recall announcement, Spring & Mulberry had not issued additional media comment beyond the FDA posting.

Company statement highlight: Consumers nationwide are urged to check packaging and follow refund or disposal instructions to reduce any potential risk.

Investigation and food-safety context

The recall followed routine third-party laboratory testing that flagged a possible Salmonella finding. Third-party testing and federal oversight are tools used to identify contamination before illnesses occur. The FDA posts recall notices to inform consumers and coordinate with retailers. This recall is limited to a single lot, which suggests a targeted contamination risk rather than a broad production failure; nevertheless, the company and regulators may continue further testing and follow-up (Fox Business; Consumer Reports).

Reporting illness and tracking outcomes

No illnesses have been reported in connection with this lot to date. If you think you may be ill after eating the product, contact your health care provider and report suspected foodborne illness to your local health department. Public health reports help officials identify outbreaks and link illnesses to products. The FDA and local health departments will post updates if more information becomes available (ABC News).

Implications for Paso Robles, California

Economic impact

Paso Robles shoppers and specialty retailers should check pantries for teal-packaged Mint Leaf bars. Local specialty stores may face returns and refund burdens; independent grocers and gift shops operating on thin margins could absorb financial and administrative strain. Online purchasers through Amazon should follow online return instructions or contact Spring & Mulberry for refunds (Fox Business).

Political and regulatory consequences

For a politically conservative audience valuing consumer choice and fiscal responsibility, the recall illustrates the role of predictable regulatory standards and private-sector quality controls, such as third-party testing, paired with federal oversight. Local leaders supportive of small business can encourage guidance and assistance to help retailers handle returns without undue financial strain (FDA).

Social and public-health effects

Salmonella risk is especially concerning for families with young children and elderly residents. Local clinics and providers should be aware of the recall to advise symptomatic patients. Public awareness via radio, community bulletins, and neighborhood social channels can help households act promptly (AARP).

Cultural relevance and consumer expectations

Paso Robles shoppers who prize artisanal and specialty foods may view this recall as a reminder that premium-priced items must still meet basic food-safety standards. Consumers can ask vendors about testing practices and lot-tracking when choosing small-batch brands (Consumer Reports).

Practical steps for Paso Robles residents

• Check your pantry and gift boxes for teal-packaged Mint Leaf Date-Sweetened Chocolate Bars and confirm the lot code: 025255 (FDA recall notice).
• If you find the recalled lot, do not eat it. Dispose of the product or request a refund by emailing recalls@springandmulberry.com with a photo of the lot code (ABC News).
• If you or someone in your care becomes ill after consuming the product, contact your health care provider and report the illness to the San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department; local reporting helps trace any potential outbreak (Consumer Reports).

Sources

For more information and official notices:

• Food and Drug Administration recall notice
• Fox Business
• ABC News
• Consumer Reports
• AARP

For consumer questions about refunds or lot verification, email recalls@springandmulberry.com or consult the FDA recall page.