Consumer News: Consumer product safety recall roundup for March 26, 2026

From fake visas to bogus crypto coins, scammers are using AI and official-looking branding to target excited soccer fans

• Cybersecurity researchers warn that World Cup 2026 scammers are using AI-generated images, fake websites, and official-looking branding to make harder to detect than ever before.

• Fans are being targeted through fake World Cup visas, bogus LEGO and Panini collectible stores, and fraudulent crypto coins designed to steal money, personal data, and digital wallet access.

• Experts say consumers should avoid clicking links from ads or social media, double-check website URLs, and be wary of high-pressure sales tactics, countdown timers, and deals that seem too good to be true.

As excitement builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, cybersecurity experts are warning that scammers are already gearing up.

While fake ticket sales have long been a concern surrounding major sporting events, researchers at Malwarebytes say criminals are now using far more sophisticated tactics to target fans money, personal information, and even cryptocurrency wallets.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Shahak Shalev, Global Head of Scam and AI Research at Malwarebytes, who explained that scammers are creating convincing fake websites, AI-generated images, and official-looking branding tied to the World Cup to trick consumers into letting their guard down.

The range from bogus travel visas and fake collectible stores to fraudulent crypto tokens and unregulated betting platforms all designed to capitalize on the hype surrounding one of the worlds biggest sporting events.

The are getting harder to spot

Shalev explained that the most current World Cup arent as easy for consumers to spot.

Previously, consumers would see more obvious red flags like typos, awkward phrasing or pixelated imagery, he said. AI has helped scammers step up their game.

Today, AI-generated images, text, and cloned websites are making , including these new examples from the World Cup, significantly harder to spot. Year-round, cybercriminals are leveraging AI tools to generate deepfakes, storefronts and advertisements that mimic legitimate companies flawlessly. Scammers leverage cultural moments and seasons to target consumers in new ways.

Some other signs to look out for:

• High-pressure tactics

• Fake inventory counters

• Unrealistic deals

• Malicious ads

• Complex site redirects that send users to a different domain than the one they clicked

Integrating with popular brands, big events

These can take many forms, and scammers have gotten creative at incorporating popular brands and working around major events, like the World Cup, to start their schemes.

Shalev broke down three of the most popular geared towards the World Cup right now the fake World Cup Visa scam, LEGO and Panini , and World Cup crypto .

World Cup Visa Scam

Heres how it works:

• Sites like "WC2026 Visa" are charging a fake $270 fee under the guise of an expedited tournament entry document.

• The reality is that there is no special tournament visa.

• The US government has confirmed that visitors must use standard B1/B2 visas or the Visa Waiver Program with an ESTA authorization.

Beyond the $270 financial loss, the long-term risks are serious, Shalev said. By filling out these forms, fans hand over personal data like their full name, passport numbers, date of birth, travel logistics, and payment information. This gives cybercriminals the information to use for their own gain or package and sell for additional identity fraud activities.

LEGO and Panini

LEGO announced a partnership with FIFA in late 2025, so that part of the scam is legitimate and what can confuse unassuming consumers.

However, where things get dicey is that scammers take advantage of consumers looking for collectible jerseys, trophies, and other World Cup memorabilia. Scammers exploit this by spinning up targeted storefronts that pretend to sell these niche products.

These sites often use quiz-funnel to secure contact info or hide subscription billing flows disguised as shipping fees. Fans click on sponsored ads or social links looking for a hard-to-find item, only to have their credit card harvested by a site that will vanish shortly after the tournament ends.

Similarly, Panini is the international distributor for stickers, trading cards, and other sports memorabilia. Scammers create websites that are lookalike versions of the legitimate Panini site, often with countdowns to inventory running out and other urgency tactics. If consumers order items from these sites, not only is there risk that they may never come, but their information is also stored for future .

Crypto

While FIFA has a real digital ecosystem (FIFA Collect, Right-to-Buy NFTs), it is strictly documented on FIFA-controlled domains, not third-party community token sites, Shalev said.

The first red flag is the claim itself. If a token claims to be an official community coin or product of FIFA, stop right there. Once a fan engages, they either receive nothing, receive something they cant sell, or sign a transaction that gives the operator access to their entire digital wallet.

Protect your identity and your money

Shalev shared his top tips to help consumers protect their identities and their money during the height of these World Cup :

• Go direct, and check URLs: Never click a link from an ad, text, or email. Look closely at the website address. Type FIFA.com or LEGO.com directly into your browser and avoid URLs like "official-worldcup-tickets.com.

• Ignore the clock: If a site has a countdown timer or says "only 100 left" to pressure you into buying, its likely a scam.

• Watch out for Facebook groups: Facebook groups have been a hotbed for scammers. There is no reason to buy from Facebook groups, as they are very hard to authenticate.

• Use a guard: Use free tools like Malwarebytes Scam Guard or Browser Guard to help you verify sites and offers in real time.

• If youve been scammed: If you realize youve been compromised, do not wait. If you shared financial details, alert your bank immediately. If you shared personal data, drop an immediate credit/fraud alert on your profile and report the incident straight to the authorities.

A recent survey found that consumers are increasingly using AI to compare prices, track deals, and decide when to buy

• A recent survey found that consumers are increasingly using AI tools to research purchases, compare prices, and find deals faster.

• Shoppers who used AI to decide whether to buy now or wait for a sale estimated saving an average of $287 over the past year.

• Experts say AI can be a helpful shopping assistant for comparing products and spotting discounts, but consumers should still double-check prices, reviews, and return policies before making major purchases.

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming more than just a tool for writing emails or answering random questions its also changing the way Americans shop.

A new survey from CouponFollow found that more consumers are turning to AI-powered tools to research products, compare prices, and figure out the best time to buy.

According to the survey of more than 1,000 U.S. consumers, many shoppers say AI is helping them find deals faster and make smarter purchasing decisions. In fact, people who used AI advice to decide whether to buy immediately or wait for a sale estimated saving an average of $287 over the past year.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Clay Cary, Senior Trends Analyst at CouponFollow, who says the findings reflect a growing shift in how consumers approach online shopping, with AI increasingly acting like a personal bargain-hunting assistant.

Key findings from the survey

The survey highlights just how quickly AI is becoming part of the modern shopping experience.

Heres a look at some of the key findings from the study:

• 81% of consumers have used AI tools to research a purchase

• 59% said AI helped them find a better deal faster than they could on their own.

• More than half of AI shoppers also said they chose AI over traditional search engines because search results often feel cluttered with ads.

• 9% of AI shoppers have even asked AI whether they should buy immediately or wait for a sale

• Those who followed the advice estimated saving an average of $287 over the past year.

• Younger consumers, especially Gen Z, are leading the shift toward AI-assisted shopping.

The findings are based on an online survey of 1,007 U.S. consumers conducted in April 2026. Respondents represented a mix of genders and generations, with millennials making up the largest share of participants.

Most survey respondents selected mainstream platforms for AI-based chatbots, such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot.

Consumers were increasingly using these services because they allow them to obtain fast responses rather than having to go through numerous search pages, Cary said. Notably, almost 55% of consumers stated that they used AI instead of Google search, since the former offered cleaner search results with no advertisements."

The benefits of using AI as a shopping assistant

Cary explained some of the best ways that consumers can use these findings to their advantage and save money moving forward.

"AI technology's assistance is especially beneficial when it comes to shopping for items that need more research and comparative shopping, including electronics, personal care products, travel, and health products, he said.

Consumer electronics and personal care products were the leading categories for consumers shopping through AI, accounting for 45% of consumers in these two categories."

A decision-making tool

Cary warns that AI tools should be used to help guide consumers decision-making not make decisions for them.

AI proves extremely useful for filtering choices, comparing products, and finding offers; however, it is essential to do your homework on factors such as price, refund policy, and reliable reviews. Being cautious pays off, particularly if it is a big purchase, he said.

ATVs, shot glasses, and baby furniture are part of this week's recall roundup

Recall Roundup

This roundup covers newly announced recalls and safety alerts from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Food and Drug Administration. The notices span childrens products, home goods, fitness gear, supplements and food sold nationwide.

Youth ATVs pose crash and burn risks

Lil Pick Up is recalling about 700 Sierra 125U youth ATVs because multiple safety failures can increase the risk of a crash, collision or severe burns.

• The ATVs can fail suspension, reverse-light, parking-brake and heat-surface safety requirements, creating serious crash and burn hazards.
• About 700 units were sold online and in stores from October 2025 through April 2026 for between $800 and $1,300.
• Consumers should stop using the youth ATVs immediately and contact Lil Pick Up for a full refund and free pickup.

Lil Pick Up Inc., of Rowland Heights, California, is recalling its Sierra 125U youth ATVs sold under various brand names, including Rider 9. The recalled vehicles have Sierra 125U on the VIN plate on the front frame column and a separate plate stating the ATV is subject to Lil Pick Ups CPSC-approved action plan. The youth ATVs were sold in red, blue, black, pink, gray, spider red and spider blue.

The hazard

The CPSC said the recalled youth ATVs violate the federal mandatory ATV safety standard and pose a risk of serious injury or death. According to the agency, the vehicles fail mechanical suspension requirements, the reverse indicator light does not illuminate, the parking brakes fail to hold, and surfaces near the footwell can become hot enough to cause severe burns. No incidents or injuries had been reported at the time of the recall.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled youth ATVs immediately and contact Lil Pick Up for a full refund. The company said buyers will be asked to register for the recall at www.lilpickup.us and will then receive instructions on returning the ATV, including free pickup and transportation.

Company contact

Lil Pick Up can be reached collect at 951-245-5663 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, by email at contact@lilpickup.us, or online at www.lilpickup.us/recall-detail.html or www.lilpickup.us by clicking Recall at the top of the page.

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Light-up shot glasses expose button batteries

ABC Trading is recalling nearly 2,900 WSDZ-branded LED shot glasses because children can access the button cell batteries inside.

• The battery compartment can be opened too easily, creating a potentially deadly ingestion hazard for children.
• About 2,900 glasses were sold at gift stores nationwide from March 2024 through October 2025 for between $6 and $10.
• Consumers should stop using the glasses, keep them away from children, dispose of the batteries and request a full refund.

ABC Trading Inc., of Vernon, California, is recalling WSDZ-branded LED shot glasses sold individually and in packs of 24. The clear plastic glasses contain three button cell batteries that power LED lights when a push button on the underside is pressed. ITEM NO: LP-024 (122) and Importer: ABC Trading, Inc are printed on a label on the underside.

The hazard

The CPSC said the glasses violate the mandatory standard for consumer products with button cell and coin batteries because children can easily access the batteries. The packaging and product also lack the warnings required under Reeses Law. If swallowed, button cell or coin batteries can cause internal chemical burns, serious injuries and death. No incidents or injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled glasses immediately, place them where children cannot reach them and properly dispose of the batteries. ABC Trading said consumers can obtain a full refund by disposing of the glass, taking a photo of the product in the trash and emailing the image to recallabc@gmail.com.

Company contact

ABC Trading can be reached toll-free at 323-581-3688 from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, by email at recallabc@gmail.com, or online at https://www.abctradinginc.com/recall-2 or www.abctradinginc.com by clicking Recall Information at the top of the page.

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Hook-on chairs create deadly fall hazard

PandaEar is recalling about 9,700 portable hook-on chairs because a removable crotch restraint can allow infants to fall through an opening.

• The crotch restraint can be removed without a tool, creating a deadly fall hazard for infants and toddlers.
• About 9,700 chairs were sold on Amazon.com from February 2022 through November 2025 for about $25.
• Consumers should stop using the chairs immediately, destroy the seating components as directed and request a full refund.

PandaEar, of Lake Dallas, Texas, and Rockville, Maryland, is recalling two models of portable hook-on chairs used to seat young children at a dining table. The chairs have a black or gray metal frame, fabric seats in black, gray or blue dinosaur print, and two metal arms with plastic covers that anchor the seat to the table. Panda Ear appears on a label stitched to the side of the seat, while model C2102 is listed on a label on the bottom of the fabric seat; model BTC-51 has no product markings.

The hazard

The recalled chairs violate the mandatory federal standard for portable hook-on chairs, according to the CPSC. The agency said the crotch restraints can be removed without the use of a tool, allowing infants to fall through an opening in the seat and suffer serious or fatal injuries. No incidents or injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled hook-on chairs immediately and contact PandaEar to receive a full refund. The company said consumers will be asked to disassemble the chair, cut the restraint straps and fabric seat, and email photographs showing the destroyed product and model label to pandaear_recall@outlook.com.

Company contact

PandaEar is handling the recall by email only at pandaear_recall@outlook.com.

Source

Resistance bands can snap off handles

HomeProGym is recalling certain resistance bands after reports that the bands can forcefully separate from the handle during workouts.

• The purple 60-pound and gray 70-pound bands can detach from the handle and strike users.
• About 700 recalled bands were sold as part of bundled sets on Homeprogym.com and Amazon.com from December 2025 through April 2026.
• Consumers should stop using the affected bands immediately and contact HomeProGym for a refund or store credit.

Supa Products Pte Ltd., doing business as HomeProGym in Singapore, is recalling HomeProGym-branded resistance bands sold in multiple stackable fitness sets and bundles. Only the purple 60-pound resistance band and the gray 70-pound resistance band are included in the recall. The latex bands have a silver metal D-ring at each end attached to a black strap, with HOME PRO GYM and either ULTRA or ULTRA PLUS printed on the strap.

The hazard

The CPSC said the recalled resistance bands can forcefully separate from the handle during use, posing a serious impact hazard. HomeProGym said it had received five reports of bands separating from the handle. No injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled purple 60-pound and gray 70-pound bands immediately and contact HomeProGym for either a full refund or a $50 HomeProGym.com store credit. The company said consumers should cut the recalled bands in half, send a photo of the destroyed bands to support@homeprogym.com and complete the registration form at https://homeprogym.com/pages/recall. The other bands in the sets can continue to be used.

Company contact

HomeProGym can be reached by email at support@homeprogym.com or online at https://homeprogym.com/pages/recall or https://homeprogym.com/ by clicking on Safety Recalls at the bottom of the page.

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Childrens toys expose deadly button batteries

ABC Trading is recalling more than 84,000 childrens toys because battery compartments can be opened by children, creating a deadly ingestion risk.

• The recalled toy headbands and electronic pet cages contain accessible button cell batteries that can cause fatal internal burns if swallowed.
• About 84,700 toys were sold at TOYZ and Joissu Product stores nationwide from November 2022 through October 2025 for between $5 and $9.
• Consumers should stop using the toys immediately, dispose of them and contact ABC Trading for a full refund.

ABC Trading Inc., of Vernon, California, is recalling several battery-powered childrens toys, including a pink bow toy headband, model 6300RP, and electronic pet cage toys, models 8266 (ZH998-22) and ZH998-23. The headband has a push button that lights up the bow, while the pet cage toys include a silver cage with a red dinosaur and yellow egg or a pink cage containing a blue bird. Regulators said children can access the batteries too easily.

The hazard

The CPSC said the toys violate the mandatory federal standard for toys because the button cell battery compartments can be opened by children. If swallowed, button cell and coin batteries can cause internal chemical burns, serious injury and death. No incidents or injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled toys immediately and contact ABC Trading for a refund. The company said consumers will be asked to dispose of the products, take a photo showing them in the trash and email the image to recallabc@gmail.com to receive a full refund of the retail price.

Company contact

ABC Trading can be reached toll-free at 323-581-3688 from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, by email at recallabc@gmail.com, or online at https://www.abctradinginc.com/recall-2 or www.abctradinginc.com by clicking Recall Information at the top of the page.

Source

Illuminated ribbon spheres may overheat

Bethlehem Lights is recalling 10-inch Illuminated Ribbon Spheres sold by QVC after reports of sparking and overheating.

• The LED lights inside the decorative sphere can overheat and create a fire hazard.
• About 2,000 units were sold on QVC.com from July 2024 through April 2026 for about $43.
• Consumers should unplug the product immediately, cut the power cord and contact Bethlehem Lights for a refund.

Bethlehem Lights LLC, of Naperville, Illinois, is recalling its 10-inch Illuminated Ribbon Sphere, a silver-toned spherical ornament with a spiral faceted design and warm-white LED lights inside. The product was sold online by QVC. The company said the decorative sphere can overheat during use.

The hazard

The recalled LED lights can overheat, posing a risk of serious injury or death from fire, according to the CPSC. Bethlehem Lights said it had received nine reports of the product sparking or overheating. No injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled illuminated spheres immediately, unplug them from the wall and cut the power cord. To receive a full refund, Bethlehem Lights said consumers should email a photo of the product showing the cut cord to ribbonsphere@bethlehemlights.com before disposing of it in the garbage.

Company contact

Bethlehem Lights LLC can be reached toll-free at 877-661-8324 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, by email at ribbonsphere@bethlehemlights.com, or through https://www.qvc.com/ by clicking Product Recall Info at the bottom of the page.

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Squeeze toys may contain asbestos

The Orb Factory is recalling more than 121,000 Orb Funkee squeeze toys because the sand filling may contain tremolite asbestos.

• The sand inside the toys may contain fibrous tremolite, and inhaling asbestos can cause serious health problems.
• About 121,340 toys were sold at Walmart and Ollies Bargain Outlet stores nationwide from February 2025 through April 2026.
• Consumers should take the toys away from children, stop using them and contact The Orb Factory for a refund.

The Orb Factory Limited, doing business as ORB Toys in Canada, is recalling two models of Orb Funkee squeeze toys with date code 3102491A. The products are soft, stretchable toys filled with sand and include model 17451, a large golden monkey, and model 41929, assorted smaller monkees in colors such as orange, purple and green. The date code is printed on the hand of the large toy or on the back of the smaller toys.

The hazard

The CPSC said the recalled squeeze toys may contain fibrous tremolite, a form of asbestos, in the sand filling. Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause adverse health effects if the fibers are inhaled. No incidents or injuries had been reported at the time of the recall.

What to do

Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children, stop using them and contact The Orb Factory for a refund. The company said consumers should verify the code and lot number, place the toy in a heavy-duty plastic bag, seal it securely with tape and email a photo of the bagged toy to customerservice@orbtoys.com. If a toy has ruptured or leaked sand, the company directed consumers to wear a mask and gloves, use damp cloths to collect the material, double-bag the toy and cleanup materials, and dispose of the sealed bags according to local or state regulations.

Company contact

The Orb Factory can be reached at 800-741-0089 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, by email at customerservice@orbtoys.com, or online at www.orbtoys.com by clicking RECALL INFORMATION at the bottom of the page.

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Pancake mix may contain undeclared egg

Hometown Food Company has issued an allergy alert for Birch Benders 12 oz Sweet Potato Pancake and Waffle Mix because some packages may contain undeclared egg.

• The mix may contain egg that is not listed on the label, creating a serious allergy risk for sensitive consumers.
• The product was distributed nationwide through grocery stores, natural food retailers and online channels.
• Consumers should discard the affected mix immediately or return it to the store where it was purchased for a refund.

Hometown Food Company is recalling Birch Benders 12 oz Sweet Potato Pancake and Waffle Mix after discovering that some product may contain undeclared egg. The affected item carries case item code 8 1000156076 5, UPC item code 8 1000156076 8, lot code 5 265 and a best-if-used-by date of March 24, 2027. The product was distributed nationwide.

The hazard

For people with an allergy or severe sensitivity to egg, eating the recalled pancake and waffle mix could trigger a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction. The FDA notice did not list any illnesses.

What to do

Consumers who purchased the affected Birch Benders mix should not eat it. Hometown Food Company said the product should be discarded immediately or returned to the retail location where it was purchased for a refund.

Company contact

Consumers with questions can call 1-855-206-9517.

Source

Minestrone soup may contain undeclared shrimp

Kettle Cuisine has issued an allergy alert for Whole Foods Market Kitchen Minestrone Soup because some containers may contain undeclared shrimp.

• The soup may contain shrimp not disclosed on the label, creating a potentially life-threatening shellfish allergy risk.
• The affected soup was sold in Whole Foods stores in 18 states and online through Whole Foods and Amazon.
• Consumers should return the affected product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Kettle Cuisine is recalling Whole Foods Market Kitchen Minestrone Soup because the product may contain undeclared shrimp. The affected containers have lot code 1762181, a use-by date of 05/27/26 printed on the top rim of the cup, and UPC 099482502065 on the back label. Distribution included Whole Foods retail stores in AL, CT, DC, FL, GA, MA, MD, ME, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, SC, TN and VA, along with nationwide online sales through Whole Foods and Amazon.

The hazard

People who are allergic to crustacean shellfish, including shrimp, could face a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the recalled soup. The FDA alert did not list any illnesses.

What to do

Consumers who purchased the affected soup should not eat it. Kettle Cuisine said buyers should return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Company contact

Consumers with questions can call 617-409-1100 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.

Source

Sex enhancement capsules contain hidden drugs

Best Supplements Best Prices is recalling WAP Sensual Enhancement Capsules because the capsules contain undeclared prescription drug ingredients.

• The capsules contain undeclared sildenafil, tadalafil and flibanserin, which can dangerously interact with other medications and alcohol.
• All lots with UPC 80174 00462 were distributed nationwide in the U.S. through eBay.
• Consumers should stop using the capsules immediately, dispose of them and contact the firm for a refund.

Best Supplements Best Prices has issued a voluntary nationwide recall of WAP Sensual Enhancement Capsules sold online through www.ebay.com. The recall covers all lots of the product with UPC 80174 00462. The company said customers are being notified by email and offered full refunds.

The hazard

The FDA said the capsules contain undeclared sildenafil, tadalafil and flibanserin. Sildenafil and tadalafil can interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs, such as nitroglycerin, and may cause blood pressure to drop to dangerous levels. Flibanserin can cause drowsiness, sedation, fainting and dangerously low blood pressure, especially when combined with alcohol. Consumers with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or heart disease may face elevated risk because they are more likely to take nitrates.

What to do

Consumers who have WAP Sensual Enhancement Capsules should stop using the product immediately and dispose of it. Best Supplements Best Prices said it is arranging full refunds for recalled products and is notifying customers by email.

Company contact

Consumers can contact the company by email at eroticenhancers@gmail.com or by calling 818-856-2141.

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Tahina recalled over Salmonella contamination

Nassar Investments is recalling Malazi Tahina after the product was found to be contaminated with Salmonella.

• The recalled tahina may contain Salmonella, which can cause severe illness and can be especially dangerous for vulnerable people.
• The product was sold in plastic bottles in Michigan and North Carolina between March 1, 2025, and June 9, 2025.
• Consumers should not eat the tahina and should discard the product immediately.

Nassar Investments is recalling Malazi Tahina due to Salmonella contamination. The recalled product has UPC 6 224011 088244 and expiration date 30/12/2026. According to the FDA notice, the tahina was distributed in retail stores in Michigan and North Carolina.

The hazard

Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people may experience fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, while pregnant women can face risks including miscarriage and stillbirth. The FDA notice did not mention any illnesses.

What to do

Consumers who purchased the recalled tahina should not consume it and should discard the product. Anyone who believes they may have become ill should contact a health care provider.

Company contact

Consumers can contact Mr. Akram Nassar at 919-949-3534.

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Kroger croutons face Salmonella risk

Sugar Foods LLC is recalling specific lots of Kroger Homestyle Cheese Garlic Croutons because of potential Salmonella contamination.

• The recalled croutons may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause serious illness in children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
• The affected lots were sold at Kroger stores in 17 states and carry UPC 0 11110 81353 4 with select best-if-used-by dates.
• Consumers should check the UPC and best-if-used-by dates and contact Sugar Foods LLC directly for questions or more information.

Sugar Foods LLC has issued a supplier-initiated recall of specific lots of Kroger Homestyle Cheese Garlic Croutons. The affected product bears UPC 0 11110 81353 4 and best-if-used-by dates from Feb. 17, 2027, through April 7, 2027, including multiple dates listed in the recall notice. The croutons were sold at Kroger stores in AL, AR, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MI, MO, MS, OH, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI and WV.

The hazard

Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people can experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, and in rare cases the infection can spread to the bloodstream and cause more serious conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis and arthritis. The FDA notice did not list any illnesses.

What to do

Consumers should check whether their package matches the recalled UPC and one of the listed best-if-used-by dates. Sugar Foods LLC said consumers who purchased one of the recalled lots may contact the company directly at 332-240-6676 for questions or more information.

Company contact

Consumers can call Sugar Foods LLC at 332-240-6676. Media inquiries can be directed to Ms. Krista Locke at 805-396-5000.

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Organic ice cream may contain metal

Straus Family Creamery is recalling select flavors of its Organic Super Premium Ice Cream because the products may contain metal fragments.

• The recalled ice cream may contain metal foreign material, creating a potential choking or injury hazard.
• The affected products were distributed in 17 states and carry listed best-by dates in late December 2026.
• Consumers should not eat the ice cream and should discard it, then visit the companys recall page for a replacement voucher.

Straus Family Creamery is voluntarily recalling select flavors of Organic Super Premium Ice Cream due to the potential presence of metal fragments. The recall covers products with best-by dates of Dec. 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 30, 2026. The affected ice cream was distributed in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin.

The hazard

The recall was issued because the ice cream may contain metal foreign material. The FDA notice did not provide injury reports, but metal fragments in food can present a risk of injury if consumed.

What to do

Consumers who purchased the recalled ice cream should not eat it and should discard it. Straus Family Creamery said consumers should not return the product to the store. Those seeking a voucher for a replacement product can visit https://www.strausfamilycreamery.com/recall/.

Company contact

Straus Family Creamery can be reached at support@strausmilk.com or 1-707-776-2887 Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT.

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Seasoning recalled over possible Salmonella risk

Blackstone Products is recalling Parmesan Ranch seasoning sold at Walmart and on its website because of possible Salmonella contamination.

• The seasoning may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can lead to severe illness and bloodstream infections in rare cases.
• The recall covers lot codes 2025-43282, 2025-46172 and 2026-54751 sold nationwide through Walmart and Blackstone Products.
• Consumers should not consume the seasoning, should dispose of it immediately and may contact the company for a replacement.

Blackstone Products is voluntarily recalling Parmesan Ranch seasoning because of a potential foodborne illness risk tied to Salmonella. The affected lots are 2025-43282, 2025-46172 and 2026-54751. The seasoning was sold nationwide exclusively through Walmart stores and through the Blackstone Products website.

The hazard

Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people commonly experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, and in rare cases the infection can enter the bloodstream and cause more severe illnesses such as infected aneurysms, endocarditis and arthritis. The FDA notice did not mention any illnesses.

What to do

Consumers who have the affected seasoning should not consume it and should dispose of it immediately. Blackstone Products said customers who purchased one of the affected products may contact the company directly to obtain a replacement product.

Company contact

Consumers can call 1-888-879-4610. Media inquiries can be directed to Tracy Baldwin at 435-252-3030 or tbaldwin@weberblackstone.com.

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New research links youth sports participation to stronger minds, healthier bodies, and better school performance

• A new study found children in after-school sports showed stronger cognitive, mental, and physical health outcomes.

• Researchers compared children with similar socioeconomic and demographic backgrounds to isolate the impact of sports participation.

• Experts say expanding access to after-school activities could support healthier development for more kids.

As concerns grow about screen time, inactivity, and childrens mental health, new research suggests after-school sports may offer benefits that go far beyond staying active.

A study recognized as a 2025 Paper of the Year by the American College of Sports Medicine found that children who participated in after-school sports consistently performed better across several measures tied to brain health, physical fitness, and emotional well-being.

This paper stood out for both its scientific rigor and its clear societal relevance, Jennifer J. Heisz, Ph.D., editor-in-chief of ESM, said in a news release.

The findings provide meaningful evidence that participation in after school sports is associated with benefits across cognitive, mental health, and physical domains, underscoring the importance of expanding equitable access to school and community programs that support brain and body health.

The study

The research, published in Exercise, Sport, and Movement, examined data from hundreds of children between the ages of 6 and 16.

Researchers compared kids who participated in sports or physical activity outside of school with those who did not. Importantly, the groups were carefully matched based on factors such as age, race, sex, puberty status, socioeconomic status, and IQ. That allowed researchers to better isolate the effects of after-school sports participation itself rather than outside influences.

What the study found

The findings were wide-ranging. Children involved in after-school sports scored better on measures tied to executive functioning, processing speed, language comprehension, and social awareness.

They also showed fewer attention-related and ADHD-related symptoms than children who did not participate in sports. On the physical side, the sports group demonstrated higher overall fitness levels, greater muscular strength and flexibility, higher daily energy expenditure, and lower resting heart rates.

Researchers noted that many children still fall short of recommended daily physical activity levels, making after-school programs an important opportunity to help close that gap. The study also pointed out that access to sports and recreational programs is not always equal, particularly for families facing financial or logistical barriers.

For parents and caregivers, the findings may reinforce the idea that sports can support more than just physical health. The study suggests that regular participation in structured physical activity may also help children build cognitive and emotional skills that affect everyday life, including focus, learning, and social interaction.

At the same time, researchers emphasized that access matters. Expanding affordable and inclusive after-school programs could help more children benefit from the positive effects linked to sports participation.

An important aspect of this study is that even after controlling for socio-demographic determinants of physical activity, we still observed widespread benefits for fitness, muscular strength, flexibility, social awareness skills, executive function, and academic performance, researcher Nicole E. Logan, PhD, said.

Given that health disparities persist for many families, our results show that we should encourage equitable access to sport and physical activity to promote healthy child development.

Less screen time may improve focus and mental health

• A new study found that taking a two-week break from smartphone internet use improved focus, sleep, mood, and anxiety levels surprisingly fast.

• Researchers said the improvement in attention span was roughly equal to reversing 10 years of normal cognitive aging.

• Experts recommend small changes like turning off notifications, moving social apps off your home screen, and keeping phones out of the bedroom at night.

New research suggests cutting smartphone use can improve focus, mood, sleep, and mental health surprisingly fast.

Most people know spending hours doomscrolling every day probably is not helping their brain. But new research suggests the impact may be much bigger than people realize.

But the good news is that even a short break from social media and smartphone use could dramatically improve focus, anxiety, sleep, and overall mental health.

A study published in PNAS Nexus followed 467 adult participants (average age of 32) who blocked internet access on their smartphones for two weeks while still allowing calls and texts.

Researchers found participants experienced:

• Improved attention spans
• Lower anxiety
• Better mood
• Better sleep
• Reduced depression symptoms

Perhaps the most eye-opening finding was that researchers saw an improvement in the sustained attention span of the participants. It was roughly the equivalent of reversing 10 years of normal age-related cognitive decline.

Another Harvard-linked study published in JAMA Network Open found that reducing smartphone use for just one week led to:

• A 16% drop in anxiety
• A nearly 25% reduction in depression symptoms
• Better overall sleep quality

Why smartphones hit the brain differently

Researchers say smartphone use may be uniquely harmful because our phones are always with us.

Unlike computers, phones constantly interrupt conversations, meals, family time, and sleep routines and are described as more compulsive and mindless than traditional computer use.

Not to mention the fact that social media feeds are designed specifically to keep users endlessly scrolling. The result is that many people never fully let their brains rest.

How to do a realistic 'brain reset'without disappearing from society

The good news is researchers are not saying people need to live off the grid in Montana or throw their iPhones into the ocean.

In fact, many study participants still saw cognitive improvements even when they didnt fully follow the rules perfectly. The big takeaway here is that experts say that even small, consistent changescan make a noticeable difference.

Here are six things to consider if you want to try your own brain reset.

1. Move social media apps off your home screen

One of the easiest ways to reduce compulsive scrolling is making certain apps slightly harder to access.

Specifically, move apps like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube into folders or secondary screens (not the screen you see when you first open your phone).

That tiny bit of friction helps interrupt automatic scrolling habits that we tend to engage in.

Pro tip: Many people instinctively open social media without even thinking about it. Simply hiding the apps that you tend to always tap can dramatically reduce screen time.

2. Turn off nearly all notifications

Notifications train your brain to constantly expect interruptions and they give you a little dopamine hit when you hear or feel an alert from your phone.

Experts recommend disabling the following:

• Social media alerts
• Shopping app notifications
• News alerts
• Breaking news banners
• Random promotional notifications

Keep only the essentials. Think:calls, texts, calendar reminders, and important family alerts.

Many people are shocked how much calmer their brain feels after just 24 hours without nonstop buzzing and notifications.

3. Stop bringing your phone everywhere

One major finding from researchers is that phones damage attention partly because they seem to follow us everywhere.

Try leaving your phone behind during short walks, grocery trips, meals, your kids sports practices, coffee runs, and when you enter the bathroom (yes, even the bathroom).

Even 20 to 30 minutes of no-phonetime can help your brain do a much-needed reset.

4. Make your bedroom a low phone zone

Sleep patterns is one of the biggest areas where smartphones quietly do damage.

Scrolling late at night does the following:

• Delays sleep
• Increases mental stimulation
• Raises stress levels
• Reduces sleep quality

Experts recommend trying to:

• Charge phones outside the bedroom
• Use a real alarm clock
• Avoid scrolling 30-60 minutes before bed

Its worth noting that many people report the biggest mental-health improvement simply from stopping nighttime doom scrolling right before they try to go to sleep.

5. Use blocking apps instead of relying on willpower

Researchers in the study used an app called Freedom to block internet access during the experiment.

Other popular apps worth checking out include:

• Opal
• ScreenZen
• Forest
• Apple Screen Time
• Android Digital Wellbeing

These are all considered "blocking apps," and they work by blocking access to specific apps or websites that you choose ahead of time.

For example, if you try opening Instagram or YouTube during your pre-determined blocked hours, the app either wont load or it will show a blocked screen instead.

6. Replace scrolling with something physical

One reason social media becomes addictive is because people reach for their phones during every tiny moment of boredom.

Experts recommend replacing that reflex with one of these activities:

• Walking
• Stretching
• Reading
• Cooking
• Journaling
• Music
• Short workouts
• Face-to-face conversation

Even simple offline activities like these can help re-train your attention span in a positive way.

Why cutting back may help your wallet too

Reducing social media use can also help consumers spend less money and avoid impulse spending.

Constant scrolling exposes us to influencer marketing, flash sales, personalized ads, and endless product recommendations.

Pro tip: Try a low-buy weekend where you avoid both social media and online shopping apps for 48 hours. Many people realize how much unnecessary spending is tied directly to boredom scrolling.

The bottom line

The research does not suggest smartphones are inherently bad.

But the growing evidence suggests nonstop social media and smartphone internet use may be affecting focus, mood, sleep, anxiety, and even spending habits far more than many people realize.

And according to researchers, even a short break may help the brain recover surprisingly quickly.