Food and beverage recalls are a natural byproduct of a large and vibrant food system here in the United States. Despite a majority of the foods we eat being mass-produced for our convenience, the FDA does an incredible job at providing a system of checks and balances to ensure the health and safety of consumers. Whenever a recall is initiated, it’s the FDA who tends to jump at the opportunity to quickly eradicate any risk of contaminants or disease. While 2024 seemed to be chock full of one recall after the next, the new year is now following suit. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Walmart is at the head of yet another recall. And this one is pertaining to more than 2,000 cases of chicken broth sold at the popular retail supercenter. The cases in question each contain six units of 48-ounce chicken broth cartons, equating to 12,138 cartons of recalled broth in total. The recall, which was first initiated on December 11, 2024, states the potential for “packaging failures that could compromise the sterility of the product, resulting in spoilage.” Cases named in the recall included those with a “Best If Used By” date of March 24, 2026 and Lot Code: 98F09234c. Additionally, the identified cases should list a Retail Unit UPC of 007874206684d and a Case UPC of 078742066844.

According to the official FDA announcement, the recalled product has been sold at Walmart locations in both Alabama and Arkansas, with no further states being named as of yet. A representative at Walmart stated that more than 242 stores in the U.S. have reportedly sold the chicken broth, meaning the actual number of affected locations may still be up in the air.

As of now, no illnesses or medical emergencies have been reported in conjunction with the recall, however, consumers who have the identified cartons of chicken broth in their possession are encouraged to return it to Walmart for a full refund.