Barry Callebaut USA LLC Issues Allergen Alert on Undeclared Milk Protein in Kroger Value Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Chicago, IL -- October 10, 2008 – Barry Callebaut USA LLC is conducting a voluntary recall on its product sold by Kroger Stores under the brand "Kroger Value Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips", 12 oz., UPC Code is 11110–86603 and "sell by" date May 30, 2010, as the product may contain undeclared milk protein. The "sell by" date is found printed in black on the end of the bag. People with allergies or severe sensitivity to milk protein may be at risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.

The Kroger Value Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips subject to this recall were sold in Kroger stores in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.

This recall was determined necessary after it was identified by 3 consumers that packages of Kroger Value Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips may also contain chocolate chips with undeclared milk protein. The package ingredient label does not identify that the product may contain milk protein.

Consumers who have purchased Kroger Value Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips with the above indicated code date may return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with any questions may contact Barry Callebaut at 1-866-678-5221.