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Some Hostess Ding Dongs sold in the United States are being recalled because of the potential they may be contaminated with mold. According to a company announcement, consuming any of the contaminated Ding Dongs could cause mycotoxins exposure.
The J.M. Smucker Co., parent company of Hostess, says the potentially contaminated Hostess Ding Dongs were distributed to retailers across the country, but the only affected products will have “Best if Used By” dates ranging from Aug. 30 to Sept. 3, 2025. The recall includes certain lots of the Hostess Chocolate Ding Dong Single Serve, the Hostess Chocolate Ding Dong and the Hostess Chocolate Ding Dong Family Pack that were sold in two, 10, and 16-count packages.
It was unclear what retail locations and states the products were distributed to, but anyone who possesses the recalled Ding Dongs should dispose of them immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a refund. The affected products have a printed UPC of 8-88109-01002, 8-88109-11061, or 8-88109-11092.
“We are working with regulatory officials to make them aware of the issue and to ensure appropriate oversight,” The J. M. Smucker Co. said in a statement announcing the recall. “Our root cause investigation confirmed a mechanical issue with a piece of equipment created conditions that could support the development of mold in the product prior to the expiration date. This mechanical issue was present for a limited period and resolved in a timely manner.”
The company added that “based on available data, no other items manufactured by The J.M. Smucker Co. are impacted by this issue.”
What are mycotoxins and why are they dangerous?
According to the World Health Organization, “Mycotoxins are toxic compounds that are naturally produced by certain types of molds (fungi). Molds that can produce mycotoxins grow on numerous foodstuffs such as cereals, dried fruits, nuts and spices.” They also point out that “most mycotoxins are chemically stable and survive food processing.”
The Cleveland Clinic states common mycotoxin poisoning symptoms include abdominal pain, blurred vision, brain fog, brain swelling, diarrhea, dizziness, fever, fluid buildup in the lungs, headache, nausea, vomiting, and short-term memory loss. Mycotoxin poisoning complications may also include cancer, coma, convulsions, and death.
“Mycotoxins are very difficult to kill. So, it’s best to properly dispose of anything they contaminate,” The Cleveland Clinic advises. “Contact professionals who specialize in fungi, mold and mycotoxin removal.”