Sugar Foods LLC is recalling specific lots of Kroger Homestyle Cheese Garlic Croutons (5 oz pouches, UPC 0 11110 81353 4) due to the potential for Salmonella contamination linked to milk powder used in the seasoning blend. The milk powder was supplied by California Dairies, Inc. to the seasoning supplier Solina USA. Although the affected seasoning batches tested negative for Salmonella before use, the company is issuing the recall out of an abundance of caution following a supplier-initiated recall by California Dairies.

Salmonella can cause serious infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can lead to more severe complications such as bloodstream infections, arterial infections, endocarditis, or arthritis. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this recall.

The recall affects only the listed lots with the following “BEST IF USED BY” dates: February 17, 18, 27, and 28, 2027, as well as March 6, 9, and 21, 2027, and April 1 and 7, 2027. These products were distributed between March 7 and April 7, 2026, to Kroger stores in AL, AR, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MI, MO, MS, OH, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, and WV. Consumers who purchased the affected croutons should contact Sugar Foods LLC at 332-240-6676 (available 24/7) with any questions.