Horizon Organic milk recall: 19,000+ cases pulled

If your child drinks Horizon Organic’s shelf-stable milk, you’ll want to check your fridge—more than 19,000 cases have been recalled due to premature spoilage concerns. Here’s what parents need to know and how to get a refund.

Details of the Horizon Organic Milk recall

Horizon Organic Dairy has issued a limited voluntary recall of specific batches of its Shelf-Stable (Aseptic) Plain Whole Milk 8-ounce cartons due to potential premature spoilage. According to the FDA, the recall affects 12-packs sold across the U.S., specifically in Arizona, California, and Nevada.

Recalled product details:

• Product: Horizon Organic Aseptic Plain Whole Milk 8oz (12-pack)
• UPC Codes: 3663207113 (12-pack), 3663207127 (single unit)
• Best By Dates: March 3–7, 2025
• Distribution: Arizona, California, and Nevada

Horizon Organic confirmed that no other Horizon products are impacted.

Related: Milk allergen risk prompts pancake mix recall—how to keep your family safe

Why is this milk being recalled?

Horizon Organic traced the issue back to heat damage during processing, which may cause the milk to spoil before its best-by date. The company clarified that this isn’t related to allergens, bacteria, or other contaminants—it’s purely a quality issue. They’ve since made changes to prevent this from happening again.

Horizon Organic Dairy has emphasized its commitment to quality and stated: “True to our roots, we will always keep pushing our practices forward for the good of the horizon we all share.”

FDA classification—what does a Class II recall mean for parents?

Initially, the FDA issued the recall in December 2024, but on January 17, 2025, the agency reclassified it as a Class II recall. The FDA did not specify why the classification level was raised.

According to the FDA, a Class II recall is issued when a product “a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.” For example, this could include packaged foods with incorrect labeling that may cause mild reactions in sensitive individuals, or over-the-counter medications with minor formulation errors.

What should parents do next?

If you have this milk at home:

• Check the packaging for the affected dates and UPC codes.
• If your carton is included in the recall, don’t drink it—discard or return it for a refund.
• Keep proof of purchase (receipt or packaging) and contact Horizon Organic Consumer Relations at 1-888-494-3020 (available Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, excluding holidays) to see if you qualify for a refund.

If your child has already had the milk and is experiencing symptoms like stomach discomfort, nausea, or other mild reactions, reach out to your pediatrician for guidance.

Related: Organic milk 101: A beginner’s guide

The bottom line

Food recalls can be frustrating, especially when they involve products we trust. But this recall is a precautionary step to keep quality standards high. If your family relies on shelf-stable milk, staying on top of best-by dates and keeping an eye out for recalls like this can help avoid spoiled products in the future.

Sources:

1. Horizon Organic Milk. 2025. horizon.com. Horizon Organic Milk: Limited Voluntary Product Recall.
2. fda.gov.