13-State Recall Hits Crystal Temptations Chocolatey Eyeballs, 2026

Chocolatey Eyeballs sold across thirteen states have been pulled from store shelves after the manufacturer discovered the candy contained milk that was never listed on the label. Crystal Temptations, based in North Arlington, New Jersey, announced the voluntary recall on August 31, 2026, warning that anyone with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity could face a serious or even life-threatening reaction if they eat the affected candy.

The recalled treats were sold under the ‘Crystal Temptations’ and ‘Little Temptations’ brand names and were distributed to Marshalls, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, and Sierra Trading Post stores in Arizona, Texas, Virginia, Georgia, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Indiana, Nevada, California, New Jersey, Connecticut, Ohio, and Wyoming.

Products Affected by This Recall

The recall covers ‘Chocolatey Eyeballs’ in five package sizes and formats. Consumers should check the style number printed on the packaging against the list below before deciding whether to keep or discard a product.

• Style 54040-CHEY – plastic bag with header card, 10 oz.
• Style 54077-CHEY – acrylic box with paper wrap, 7 oz.
• Style 58008-CHEY – round plastic jar, 10.5 oz.
• Style 58089-CHEY – designer plastic pouch bag, 16 oz.
• Style 54083-CHEY – plastic bag tied with a tag, 11 oz.

Why Was This Recall Issued?

According to the company’s announcement, the eyeballs contain whey, a milk derivative, but the packaging failed to disclose milk as an ingredient. The issue was flagged by an analyst at TJX, the parent company of Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and HomeGoods, before Crystal Temptations launched its own investigation. That review traced the mislabeling to what the company described as a temporary breakdown in its production and packaging processes.

Undeclared milk is one of the most common triggers behind U.S. food recalls, since it counts among the major allergens the FDA requires companies to list clearly on labels. For someone with a true milk allergy, even a small, unlabeled amount can set off symptoms ranging from hives and stomach upset to anaphylaxis, a reaction that can become life-threatening without prompt treatment.

Where Were These Products Sold?

The affected Chocolatey Eyeballs reached shoppers in thirteen states through off-price retail chains rather than traditional grocery stores. Because these products were marketed for Halloween, shoppers who stocked up on seasonal candy in recent weeks are especially encouraged to check what they bought before it ends up in a trick-or-treat bowl.

As of the recall announcement, Crystal Temptations reported no illnesses linked to the product.

What Should You Do?

Anyone who purchased Crystal Temptations or Little Temptations Chocolatey Eyeballs matching the styles listed above should not eat the candy. The company is asking consumers to destroy the product rather than return it to the place of purchase, since refunds are not being issued at the register.

• Stop eating or serving the recalled Chocolatey Eyeballs immediately.
• Destroy the product; do not attempt an in-store return.
• Contact Crystal Temptations directly with proof of purchase to request a refund.
• Call 1-201-246-7990, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time.
• Watch for allergic reaction symptoms if the product may have already been consumed, and seek medical care if needed.

What the Company Said

In its statement filed with the FDA, Crystal Temptations said it was recalling the eyeballs ‘because they contain undeclared MILK allergens’ and that people with milk allergies or severe sensitivities face a risk of serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume the product. The company said the root cause was a temporary lapse in its production and packaging process, and it has since acknowledged the labeling gap publicly through this announcement.