In a heartbreaking incident, a 25-year-old UK ballet dancer, Orla Baxendale, lost her life in New York after consuming a mislabeled Vanilla Florentine Cookie that contained peanuts, triggering a severe allergic reaction. The product, purchased from Stew Leonard’s grocery shop in Connecticut, did not labelled peanuts and eggs on its packaging.

Despite being meticulous about checking ingredients and carrying an EpiPen, Baxendale suffered anaphylactic shock on January 11, leading to her untimely demise. Even though an EpiPen was administered, the severity of her allergy rendered it ineffective.

Baxendale’s attorney emphasized her diligence in scrutinizing food labels and the presence of an EpiPen, revealing the devastating outcome of the incident. Stew Leonard’s has since recalled the batch of Vanilla Florentine Cookies, acknowledging the undisclosed presence of peanuts and eggs. Meghan Bell, the director of public relations for Stew Leonard’s, warned of potential life-threatening reactions for individuals with allergies to these ingredients.

Orla Baxendale, originally from East Lancashire in England, had relocated to New York to pursue her passion for dance. Described as an “exquisite ballet, contemporary, and Irish step dancer” in her online obituary, she was remembered as the “embodiment of enthusiasm, strength, and beauty.”

The Baxendale family expressed shock and devastation over the loss, emphasizing Orla’s careful approach to her severe peanut allergy. The owner of Stew Leonard’s conveyed sympathy, acknowledging the profound impact on the family and the community. This tragic incident sheds light on the critical importance of accurate food labeling and the potential consequences of mislabeling for individuals with severe allergies.