Tony’s Chocolonely Inc., a New York-based chocolate manufacturer, has initiated a voluntary recall of specific chocolate bars distributed across the United States. The recall, announced on April 1, 2025, and publicized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on April 2, 2025, pertains to the possible presence of small stones in certain products.
Details of the Recalled Products
The recall affects two of Tony’s Chocolonely’s products:
Dark Chocolate Almond Sea Salt Bar (6.35 oz / 180g):
Lot Codes and Best-Before Dates:
- Lot 163094: Best before April 2, 2026
- Lot 162634: Best before February 28, 2026
- Lot M162634: Best before February 28, 2026
UPC Codes:
- Lots 163094 and 162634: UPC 858010005641
- Lot M162634: UPC 850011828908
Everything Bar (6.35 oz / 180g):
Lot Codes and Best-Before Dates:
- Lot 4327: Best before November 22, 2025
- Lot 4330: Best before November 25, 2025
- Lot 4331: Best before November 26, 2025
- Lot M4331: Best before November 26, 2025
UPC Codes:
- Lots 4327, 4330, and 4331: UPC 850011828564
- Lot M4331: UPC 850032676441
These products were distributed nationwide between February 7 and March 24, 2025, and were available through various retail stores and online platforms, including Tony’s Chocolonely’s official website.
Reason for the Recall
The recall was initiated following reports of small stones being found in the chocolate bars. The contamination is believed to have occurred during a third-party almond harvesting and processing procedure, where stones were not adequately filtered out. To date, 12 consumer reports have been received regarding this issue, all originating from outside the United States and Canada. No injuries have been reported in connection with these incidents.
Consumer Guidance
Consumers who have purchased the affected products are advised to take the following steps:
- Identification: Check the lot code and best-before date on the packaging to determine if the product is part of the recall.
- Action: If you possess an affected product and have not yet consumed it, do not eat the chocolate. You can return the product to the place of purchase for a refund or replacement, or dispose of it safely.
- Further Information: For detailed instructions on identifying affected lot codes and submitting a refund or replacement request, visit Tony’s Chocolonely’s official recall page at https://us.tonyschocolonely.com/pages/recall-fo-intl-0325.
Company Statement
Tony’s Chocolonely has emphasized that no other lot codes or products are included in this recall. The company is committed to maintaining high-quality standards and is taking all necessary measures to address the issue promptly. Consumers with questions or concerns can contact Tony’s Chocolonely directly through the contact information provided on their official website.
How Recalls Impact Brand Trust and Consumer Behavior
Recalls, although concerning, do not always damage a brand’s reputation—especially when handled with transparency and urgency. In fact, swift action, like that taken by Tony’s Chocolonely, can enhance a brand’s credibility by showing its commitment to safety and responsibility.
In today’s marketplace, consumers value honesty and accountability more than ever. Brands that issue clear communication, provide timely updates, and offer easy refund or replacement options are more likely to maintain customer loyalty. Tony’s Chocolonely’s open and informative recall process demonstrates an understanding of this evolving consumer expectation.
Preventive Measures Moving Forward
Following the incident, Tony’s Chocolonely has reportedly reviewed its quality control systems and intensified scrutiny of third-party ingredient suppliers. Preventing foreign objects like stones from entering food products often requires multi-layered screening processes—such as sieving, metal detection, and visual inspection—especially in the harvesting and handling of nuts. The contamination occurred during the almond processing stage, which was carried out by an external partner. Although the issue was outside of Tony’s direct manufacturing process, the company has acknowledged the importance of end-to-end supply chain oversight. This includes working more closely with suppliers and reinforcing food safety protocols at all stages of production.
What Consumers Can Learn from This
Product recalls are a reminder that even the most well-respected and ethically driven brands can face quality control challenges. Here are a few key takeaways for consumers:
- Check Labels Regularly
Always take a moment to review the packaging of food items, especially if you’ve heard of a recall. Lot numbers, UPC codes, and expiration dates can quickly confirm if your item is affected. - Stay Updated
Follow trusted news sources, the FDA website, or company newsletters to get the latest recall notices. Social media is also a helpful platform for real-time alerts. - Report Issues Promptly
If you discover a problem with a food product, report it to the manufacturer or appropriate food safety authority. Consumer feedback often helps identify widespread issues. - Support Transparency
Continue supporting brands that take responsibility, communicate openly, and actively improve their processes. Mistakes can happen, but how a company responds makes all the difference.
Broader Context of Food Product Recalls
This recall is part of a broader trend of food product recalls aimed at ensuring consumer safety. In recent months, other food brands have undertaken similar actions to address potential safety concerns. For instance, a well-known granola bar company voluntarily recalled several of its products after discovering the potential presence of metal fragments, highlighting the industry’s ongoing focus on product quality and consumer safety.
Conclusion
Tony’s Chocolonely’s proactive approach in recalling the affected chocolate bars underscores the company’s dedication to consumer safety and product integrity. Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant by checking product details and adhering to recall advisories to ensure their well-being.
