Friendly’s Ice Cream Recall: Packaging Error Puts Consumers at Risk of Allergic Reactions

A fresh ice cream recall has been issued after a labeling mistake put certain consumers at risk. Friendly’s Ice Cream announced on August 6, 2025, that a limited batch of its Cookies & Cream flavor was incorrectly packaged in Vanilla Bean cartons. The error resulted in missing allergen information — specifically soy and wheat — which could lead to serious or potentially life-threatening allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 324 cartons of 48-fluid-ounce Cookies & Cream ice cream are affected. These products feature Vanilla Bean packaging with Cookies & Cream lids, bearing a best by date of November 26, 2025 printed on the lid. No lot number was provided, but this combination of packaging details is the primary identifier for consumers.

The recall affects only this specific batch. No other Friendly’s products are involved. As of now, no illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported.

How to Identify the Recalled Ice Cream

To check if the product in your freezer is part of the recall:

• Carton label: Friendly’s Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

• Lid label: Cookies & Cream

• Best by date: 11/26/25 (printed on the lid)

If your carton matches these details, it is part of the recall and should not be consumed.

Where the Recalled Products Were Sold

The recalled ice cream was distributed by DFA Dairy Brands, LLC through United Natural Foods to retail stores in:

• Maryland

• Virginia

• Pennsylvania

While the distribution was limited to these three states, the company warns that the products may still be in consumers’ homes.

Why This Ice Cream Recall Matters

Food recalls involving undeclared allergens are among the most serious, as allergic reactions can occur even with small amounts of an ingredient. For individuals with soy or wheat allergies, ingesting these products could cause hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening emergency.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that food allergies affect millions of Americans, and prompt recalls help prevent dangerous exposures. This case highlights the importance of accurate labeling and strict quality checks in the food industry.

What to Do if You Have the Product

Friendly’s advises customers to:

• Stop using the product immediately

• Return it to the place of purchase for a full refund

• Contact Friendly’s at 800-587-2259 for further information

The company emphasizes that consumer safety is its top priority and that corrective measures are in place to prevent future errors.

Expert Perspective on Food Labeling Errors

Food safety experts stress that allergen labeling errors can happen at various stages — from production to packaging — but prevention relies heavily on strict oversight and cross-checking procedures. According to industry specialists, a single packaging mix-up can impact brand trust and result in costly recalls.

This Friendly’s recall serves as a reminder for consumers to always double-check packaging and ingredient labels before consumption, especially if they have known food allergies.

What’s Next for Consumers and the Brand

While no health incidents have been reported, Friendly’s is working closely with the FDA to ensure the recalled products are removed from store shelves and that consumers are informed promptly. Ongoing monitoring will determine whether additional actions are required.

For consumers, the best action is to stay informed about recalls by checking official announcements from the FDA or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

If you have the recalled ice cream in your freezer, take action immediately. Food recalls like this one underscore the importance of vigilance when it comes to allergen safety — a small step that can prevent serious health consequences.

You Must Know:

Q1: What is the Friendly’s ice cream recall about?
This recall involves Friendly’s Cookies & Cream ice cream mistakenly packaged in Vanilla Bean cartons without soy and wheat allergen warnings.

Q2: How many cartons are affected in this ice cream recall?
A total of 324 cartons of 48-fluid-ounce Cookies & Cream ice cream are part of the recall.

Q3: Where was the recalled Friendly’s ice cream sold?
It was distributed in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania through United Natural Foods.

Q4: How can I identify the recalled product?
Check for Vanilla Bean cartons with Cookies & Cream lids and a best by date of 11/26/25.

Q5: Have there been any illnesses linked to the recalled ice cream?
No illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported so far, according to the FDA.

Q6: What should I do if I have the recalled product?
Stop consuming it, return it for a refund, or contact Friendly’s at 800-587-2259.