If you’ve recently picked up one of Atwater’s Spider Web Tarts Recall from a local farmers market, you’ll want to pay close attention. The beloved Baltimore bakery Atwater’s has issued a Class I recall for its popular Spider Web Tart due to undeclared almond flour a major allergen that wasn’t listed on the label.
This recall isn’t just another headline; it’s a serious food safety issue that affects markets across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Let’s unpack what happened, why it matters, and what you should do next.
What Is the Atwater’s Spider Web Tarts Recall?
Atwater’s is known for its fresh, artisanal baked goods made from scratch. Their Spider Web Tart is a seasonal favorite, featuring a rich chocolate filling topped with a delicate web design perfect for Halloween. Unfortunately, a small batch of these tarts sold on October 19 and 20, 2024 contained almond flour that wasn’t declared on the ingredient label.
The tarts were packaged in clear plastic clamshell containers with a green “Atwater’s Spider Web Tart” label and a Julian date of 292 printed on the bottom. The recall covers tarts sold directly to consumers at farmers markets in Arlington, Falls Church, Westover, Silver Spring, Greenbelt, Dupont Circle, H Street, and Mount Pleasant.
No retail stores were involved, meaning the recall only affects customers who purchased from these farmers markets on those two dates.
Why Was the Recall Issued?
The problem started when Atwater’s realized that almond flour had been used in the tart recipe but not listed on the product label. Almonds are classified as a major food allergen under the FDA’s Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act. For people with nut allergies, consuming even a small amount can trigger severe allergic reactions.
The FDA recall notice stated that “people who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to almonds run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.”
Thankfully, no allergic reactions or illnesses have been reported to date. But the presence of undeclared nuts made this a Class I recall, which the FDA defines as the highest risk level—indicating a product that could cause serious health problems or death.
How the Labeling Breakdown Happened?
According to Atwater’s, the issue came from a temporary breakdown in labeling and production controls. During the busy Halloween baking season, a small production run used almond flour, but the labels weren’t updated to reflect that change.
This might sound like a simple oversight, but it’s a critical error under food safety law. Every manufacturer, whether small or large, must maintain strict allergen control procedures. Even local bakeries selling at farmers markets are required to follow FDA regulations on ingredient labeling and cross-contamination prevention.
It’s a reminder that quality control and communication between kitchen staff and packaging teams must be airtight—especially when allergens are involved.
Scope of the Recall
The recall applies specifically to Spider Web Tarts with the Julian date 292 and sold on October 19–20, 2024. These tarts were available at farmers markets across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. No other Atwater’s products are affected.
Each tart came in a clear plastic clamshell container with the Atwater’s logo printed on top. If you bought one around that time, check the packaging carefully. If the date or label matches the recalled batch, do not eat it.
Health Risks and What You Should Do
Even if you don’t have a nut allergy yourself, it’s important to understand the risk. Almond allergies can cause reactions ranging from mild hives to severe anaphylaxis. Symptoms can include swelling of the lips or throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness, nausea, and even loss of consciousness.
If you think you might have one of the recalled tarts, here’s what to do:
- Stop eating the product immediately.
- Contact Atwater’s directly to report the purchase and request a refund.
- Dispose of the product safely if you can’t return it.
- Seek medical help right away if you or anyone else experiences allergic symptoms after eating the tart.
It’s always a good idea to take photos of the packaging before discarding it. That can help trace specific batches and assist the FDA in tracking distribution.
The FDA’s Response
The FDA classified this as a Class I recall, which is reserved for the most serious food safety risks. Class I recalls are issued when there’s a reasonable chance that eating the product could cause serious health problems.
The agency praised Atwater’s for taking quick action and cooperating with regulators, but it also used the incident to emphasize how crucial proper labeling and allergen management are.
In fact, the FDA has recently increased enforcement around undeclared allergens, issuing several warning letters to food producers for similar violations involving mislabeling, cross-contact, and sanitation issues.
Lessons for Food Producers
This recall should serve as a wake-up call for every food producer—large or small. Mistakes in labeling can happen, but they’re preventable with the right systems in place.
Here are a few lessons other producers can learn from Atwater’s recall:
- Double-check every label before packaging. One missing ingredient could lead to a full-scale recall.
- Implement allergen control plans and cross-contact prevention systems.
- Provide regular staff training to keep everyone aware of allergen protocols.
- Document every recipe change and update ingredient lists immediately.
- Communicate with consumers quickly and transparently when problems arise.
Even artisanal brands with great reputations can be affected by small lapses in process management.
How Consumers Can Protect Themselves?
Consumers also have a role to play in preventing allergic reactions and responding to recalls responsibly. Here’s how you can stay safe:
- Always read labels carefully, even when buying from local bakeries or farmers markets.
- Ask about ingredients if a product doesn’t have a full label or allergen statement.
- Subscribe to recall alerts on the FDA website so you’re informed about potential risks.
- Keep allergy medication or an epinephrine auto-injector available if you or a family member has severe allergies.
- Stay cautious with seasonal or specialty items, as recipes can change without notice.
It’s easy to assume that local or handmade products are safer, but allergen laws apply to everyone—from national food chains to small weekend markets.
Final Thoughts
The Atwater’s Spider Web Tarts recall reminds us that food safety isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about transparency, accuracy, and accountability. Even trusted local bakeries can make labeling mistakes, but what matters most is how they respond.
Atwater’s acted quickly, worked with the FDA, and issued a clear recall notice. For consumers, this incident is a valuable reminder to stay informed and vigilant about allergens, no matter where you buy your treats.
Recalls like this one ultimately help build a safer food system—one where honesty and consumer safety always come first.