A Recall on Licorice

Sacramento, CA – California’s Department of Public Health (CDPH) and state health officials warned consumers not to eat Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists, Family Mix, Mixed Bites and Snaps containing black licorice. This warning comes after the manufacturer expanded its August 22 recall because it determined these products may contain levels of lead exceeding the state’s standards. Consumers who have this candy should throw it away immediately.

The following products are subject to this expanded recall:

• Black Licorice Bar, 2.5 oz.
• Jumbo Black Licorice Hanging Bag, 8 oz.
• Black Licorice Tray, 5 oz.
• Black Licorice Laydown Bag, 7 oz.
• Black Licorice Laydown Bag, 16 oz.
• Black Licorice Jar, 4 lbs.
• Mixed Bites Hanging Bag, 8 oz.
• Mixed Bites Bag, 16 oz.
• Family Mix Laydown Bag, 24 oz.
• Family Mix Laydown Bag, 32 oz.
• Snaps Hanging Bag, 5.5 oz.
• Snaps Theater Box, 4.5 oz.
• Snaps Tin, 12 oz.

Red Vines Sugar Free Black Licorice and red flavored licorice products are not part of this recall.

Red Vines® Black Licorice candy products are manufactured and distributed by American Licorice Co., Union City, California. CDPH is currently working with the manufacturer to ensure that the contaminated candies are removed from stores. American Licorice Company expanded its earlier recall after additional testing of black licorice products determined that recently produced products could also contain elevated levels of lead.

Pregnant women and parents of children who may have eaten this candy should consult their physician or health care provider to determine if medical testing is needed.

Consumers who find this candy for sale should call the CDPH Complaint Hotline at 1 800-495-3232.

Click here for a complete list of the recalled products and pictures of their labels.