Before you remove the wrapper on that nostalgic chocolate-covered treat, stop and take a second look at the box. Hostess has issued a voluntary recall on its beloved Ding Dongs snack cakes over fears that select products could be tainted with mold, prompting urgent warnings for shoppers to double-check their snack drawers.
The recall was issued on August 25, 2025 by The J.M. Smucker Company, parent of Hostess Brands, for select boxes of Chocolate Ding Dongs due to a potential risk of mold contamination in certain batches. The recall affects products distributed across the U.S. and is a preventive measure in response to a manufacturing hiccup that could allow mold to form prior to the product’s best-by date.
Which Boxes Are Affected?
The recall covers Hostess Chocolate Ding Dongs sold in 2-count, 10-count, and 16-count boxes. Affected packages carry these UPC codes:
- 8-88109-01002
- 8-88109-11061
- 8-88109-11092
All of the recalled products share best-by dates ranging from August 30 through September2, 2025.
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How Widespread is the Recall?
Hostess says the manufacturing equipment issue that briefly created conditions where mold could form in sealed cakes has already been corrected at the plant. Only five product lots are believed to be at risk, but the company is erring on the side of caution.
What Should Shoppers Do?
Consumers are advised not to eat any Ding Dongs from the listed lots. Instead, the company suggests tossing the cakes or returning them to the store for a full refund. In a statement, a Hostess spokesperson apologized for the disruption and reinforced that customer safety is the brand’s top priority, saying, “We are committed to your health and safety and regret any inconvenience this may cause.”
Retailers like Tops have already flagged the issue to shoppers, though it’s not clear how many cakes ever made it onto shelves.
Related: FDA Announces Recall of Dog, Cat Food – Humans Could Be At Risk, Too
Are They Dangerous?
Mold exposure isn’t just unappetizing—it can also trigger mycotoxin-related illnesses. Symptoms may include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Food safety experts emphasize that if anyone feels sick after eating one of the recalled products, they should reach out to a healthcare provider immediately.
Experts recommend treating the recall as serious: do not consume, donate, or feed the recalled products to pets. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come into direct contact with an affected product.
Bottom Line
For snack fans, this recall may sting, but it’s limited to a small batch of Ding Dongs with short-dated codes. Still, the warning is clear: check your pantry before you unwrap.
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