HONOLULU (KHON2) — Several illnesses have been reported at Hawaiʻi Department of Education schools following the recall of Meadow Gold chocolate milk, the department said.
The recall affects cartons of milk with an Oct. 16 expiration date, which were distributed to some schools. Since the recall, the DOE has begun to work on removing affected milk from schools.
“The department is working with Meadow Gold and the Department of Health to ensure all affected products are pulled from schools,” the department said. “Out of caution, schools have been directed to serve shelf-stable milk or water while the situation is assessed.”
State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble said that the issue stemmed from an abnormal consistency in the milk, and confirmed some individuals have fallen sick at affected schools.
“DOH is currently investigating a cluster of gastrointestinal illness among nine individuals at one school where the recalled milk had been served,” Kemble said. “It is not yet clear whether the recalled milk is the cause of illness in these individuals. Illnesses reported thus far have not required medical attention.”
Those who have fallen sick since consuming the recalled milk is urged to call the DOH Disease Reporting Line at (808) 586-4586.