The stockings are empty, the presents are unwrapped and the festivities are enjoyed – but on the day after Christmas, one question remains: Are your holiday leftovers safe? This year, a wave of food recalls leading up to Christmas sparked serious concerns about popular products, from potato chips to holiday staples like eggs and seafood. As families search through their refrigerators for another slice of leftover pizza or a cup of cocoa, it’s worth pausing to assess the hidden risks.

Costco’s Handsome Brook Farms Organic Eggs

Costco’s Handsome Brook Farms Organic Eggs, a staple for holiday breakfasts and baking projects, have been recalled due to possible salmonella contamination. Eggs find their way into many holiday traditions, from scrambled breakfasts to rich desserts, making this recall a problem for countless households.

ForbesFDA Raises Costco Egg Recall – Class I Warning, ExplainedFrom Stephanie Gravalese

Lay’s Classic Potato Chips

A holiday party isn’t complete without chips, but if you purchased Lay’s Classic Potato Chips in Oregon or Washington, this is something to keep in mind. These chips have been recalled due to undeclared milk allergens, posing a serious risk to people with milk allergies. Even snacks as simple as these deserve a second look this holiday season.

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Oysters and Manila clams from Pickering Passage, Washington

For seafood lovers, oysters and Manila clams are often a highlight of festive feasts. However, these shellfish from Pickering Passage in Washington have been recalled due to a norovirus outbreak. Noroviruses can cause serious illness, especially when eating raw or undercooked seafood, making this an important recall for holiday tables.

Connie’s Thin Crust Cheese Frozen Pizza

Frozen pizza often comes to the rescue during the busy holiday season, but not all pizza is safe. Connie’s Thin Crust Cheese Pizza has been recalled due to concerns about plastic pollution. If this quick meal solution has found its way to your holiday table, it’s worth reconsidering the leftovers.

Lidl’s Taste of Germany frozen butter vegetables

Frozen butter vegetables are a popular holiday side dish, but Lidl’s Taste of Germany version has been flagged for undeclared milk allergens. With many families coping with dietary restrictions, this recall highlights the importance of double-checking ingredient lists – even for simple staples.

Impero Foods & Meats Raw Italian Pork Sausage

Known for its rich flavor and versatility in holiday dishes such as stuffing and pasta, Impero’s raw Italian pork sausage has been recalled because it was distributed without federal inspection. Lack of proper supervision raises food safety concerns and therefore makes this product one to avoid in your festive meals.

How to stay safe and informed

Food recalls can be overwhelming, especially around the holidays. But a few proactive steps can help you protect your and your family’s meals:

• Check the recalls regularly: Check reliable sources such as the USDA or FDA websites for current recall warnings. Many websites also offer email subscriptions so you can stay up to date.
• Check out the food packaging: Look for lot numbers, expiration dates, and product codes that match recall notifications. If in doubt, play it safe and throw the item away.
• Store and reheat leftovers safely: Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of serving and consume within three to four days. Reheat foods to at least 165°F to kill harmful bacteria.
• Inform your guests: If you’re hosting or sharing meals, make sure everyone is aware of any recalls that could affect your holiday offering.
• Know the symptoms: If anyone in your household experiences nausea, diarrhea, or fever after consuming a recalled product, contact a doctor immediately. Reporting suspected foodborne illnesses to local health authorities is also good practice.

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