The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a major recall affecting more than 15,000 boxes of oyster crackers sold at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Giant Eagle.
The recall stems from the discovery of stainless steel wire fragments inside the crackers, creating a potential health risk for consumers.
Why the oyster crackers were recalled
Shearer’s Foods, LLC initiated the recall on February 21, 2025, after detecting contamination during quality control checks. The FDA officially classified the recall as a Class II on March 11, meaning the affected products could cause temporary or reversible health issues. The risk of serious injury remains low but not negligible.
Officials encourage consumers to review products they already purchased and take swift action to prevent any health hazards.
Brands and states impacted
The recalled oyster crackers were distributed under several brand names and reached stores in at least 20 states. Affected brands include:
- Market Pantry Soup & Oyster Crackers (Target)
- Great Value Soup & Oyster Crackers (Walmart)
- Giant Eagle Oyster Crackers (Giant Eagle)
- Vista Soup & Oyster Crackers (bulk distribution)
The crackers were sold in Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
How to identify recalled oyster crackers
Check for these product details:
- Market Pantry (Target): UPC 085239114933, expiration date May 23, 2025 (code BC06)
- Great Value (Walmart): UPC 078742085494, expiration date May 23, 2025 (codes ABO6, BBO6, CBO6)
- Giant Eagle: UPC 030034915087, expiration date May 24, 2025 (code AB06)
- Vista (bulk): UPC 045100008006, expiration date May 24, 2025 (code AB06)
- Bulk (20 lb): UPC 10045100400203, expiration date May 24, 2025 (codes AB06, BB06)
Consumers who find these products at home should stop using them immediately.
What to do if you purchased affected crackers
The FDA advises consumers to throw out the recalled crackers or return them to the store for a refund or exchange.
Many stores have already pulled the affected batches from shelves, but leftover products could still be in home pantries.
Consumers seeking more information should visit the FDA recall site or contact Shearer’s Foods, LLC directly.
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