diff --git a/code/modules/food_and_drinks/food/customizables.dm b/code/modules/food_and_drinks/food/customizables.dm
index e5f3d99bd0d..41cbf5be7dc 100644
--- a/code/modules/food_and_drinks/food/customizables.dm
+++ b/code/modules/food_and_drinks/food/customizables.dm
@@ -117,9 +117,8 @@
 		if(INGREDIENTS_STACKPLUSTOP)
 			I.pixel_x = rand(-1,1)
 			I.pixel_y = 2 * ingredients.len - 1
-			our_overlays.Cut(ingredients.len)	//???
-			//force an update here just in case
-			SSoverlays.processing[src] = src
+			if(our_overlays)
+				our_overlays.Cut(ingredients.len)	//???, add overlay calls later in this proc will queue the compile if necessary
 			var/image/TOP = new(icon, "[icon_state]_top")
 			TOP.pixel_y = 2 * ingredients.len + 3
 			add_overlay(I)