Lemon Meringue Pies Recalled in 14 States Over Food Dye

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled more than 136,000 Lemon Meringue Pies and Sugar-Free Lemon Meringue Pies after discovering an undeclared food dye. The desserts were sold in 14 states under multiple brand names, including Jessie Lord Bakery, First Street, and H-E-B Bakery.

Why Were the Pies Recalled?

On September 5, the FDA announced that Jessie Lord Bakery, LLC, a California-based company, used Yellow #5 (tartrazine) in the pies without listing it on the labels. Because of this omission, consumers with sensitivities to artificial dyes faced unexpected health risks.

The recall covers:

• Jessie’s Lemon Meringue Pie (UPC: 0 41512 08275 7)

• Jessie’s Lemon Meringue Pie Sugar Free (UPC: 8 85523 30811 2)

• First Street Lemon Meringue Pie (UPC: 000 41220 84232 2)

• H-E-B Bakery Lemon Meringue Pie

• Lemon Meringue Pie, 8″ round; Net Wt. 27 oz; UPC: 8 85523 31811 1

The affected pies carry lot codes “24050-25231” and show a “Best By” date of February 19, 2027.

Where Were the Products Sold?

The pies were distributed to grocery stores in Alabama, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Stores such as Safeway, Vons, Ralphs, and H-E-B may have stocked the recalled desserts. Therefore, shoppers in these states should check their freezers immediately.

The Controversy Around Yellow #5

Yellow #5, also known as tartrazine, has faced scrutiny for years. Researchers have linked it to allergic skin reactions, digestive problems, and hyperactivity in children with ADHD. In April 2025, the FDA confirmed plans to phase out six synthetic dyes, including Yellow #5, by the end of 2026.

As a result, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has continued pushing for stronger limits on food dyes, raising consumer awareness about their risks.

Recall Classification and Consumer Advice

The FDA labeled the incident as a Class II recall, which means the products may cause temporary or reversible health problems, but serious consequences remain unlikely. Even so, the agency urges all consumers to discard affected pies immediately.

By acting now, families can avoid unnecessary health concerns and help ensure safer food options going forward.