FDA Issues Recall on Mislabeled Decaffeinated Coffee: What Consumers Need to Know

Overview of the Recall

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for Our Family Traverse City Cherry Artificially Flavored Decaf Light Roast Ground Coffee due to a labeling error. Approximately 692 cases were mislabeled as decaffeinated but contain caffeine. The affected 12-ounce bags have a best before date of August 3, 2025, and UPC code 0 70253 11080 1. ​

Health Implications of Caffeine Consumption

For individuals sensitive to caffeine or those advised to avoid it due to medical conditions, consuming mislabeled caffeinated coffee can lead to adverse effects such as increased heart rate, insomnia, and nervousness. It's crucial for consumers to monitor their caffeine intake, especially when managing health conditions like heart problems or anxiety disorders. ​

FDA's Classification and Consumer Guidance

The FDA has categorized this recall as a "Class II" recall, indicating that exposure to the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. Consumers in possession of the recalled coffee should discontinue use immediately. For further instructions or to report adverse reactions, visit the FDA's official website or contact the manufacturer directly. ​

Decaffeination Processes and Safety Concerns

Decaffeinated coffee undergoes processes to remove caffeine, with one common method involving the use of methylene chloride. While the FDA permits residual levels of methylene chloride up to 10 parts per million in decaf coffee, health advocacy groups have raised concerns about potential health risks associated with this chemical. The FDA is currently reviewing petitions to ban methylene chloride in food products due to its potential carcinogenic properties. ​

Here are some questions and answers related to the FDA decaffeinated coffee recall:

1. What is the reason for the FDA recall on decaffeinated coffee?

Answer: The FDA issued a recall on Our Family Traverse City Cherry Artificially Flavored Decaf Light Roast Ground Coffee because it was incorrectly labeled as decaffeinated when it actually contains caffeine. This could pose health risks to individuals sensitive to caffeine or those who need to avoid it for medical reasons.

2. Which brand and product are affected by this recall?

Answer: The affected product is Our Family Traverse City Cherry Artificially Flavored Decaf Light Roast Ground Coffee, sold in 12-ounce bags with a Best Before Date of August 3, 2025, and UPC Code: 0 70253 11080 1.

3. What are the potential health risks of consuming mislabeled caffeinated coffee?

Answer: People who are sensitive to caffeine may experience side effects such as:

• Increased heart rate

• Anxiety or nervousness

• Insomnia or sleep disturbances

• Digestive issues

• Headaches or dizziness

For individuals with heart conditions, caffeine consumption can elevate blood pressure and increase heart-related risks.

4. In which states was the recalled coffee distributed?

Answer: The recalled coffee was distributed in 15 states, including:
Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Minnesota, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

5. What should consumers do if they purchased this recalled coffee?

Answer: Consumers should stop using the product immediately and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Alternatively, they can contact the manufacturer for more information.

6. How can consumers verify if their coffee is part of the recall?

Answer: Check the Best Before Date (August 3, 2025) and UPC Code (0 70253 11080 1) on the coffee packaging. If these match the recall details, it means your product is part of the recall.

7. How does the decaffeination process work, and is it safe?

Answer: Decaffeination is done through various methods, including:

• Swiss Water Process (chemical-free)

• Carbon Dioxide Method (CO₂ extraction)

• Solvent-Based Methods (using methylene chloride or ethyl acetate)

The FDA allows trace amounts of methylene chloride in decaf coffee (up to 10 ppm), but health advocates have raised concerns about its potential risks.

8. Where can consumers report adverse effects from consuming this product?

Answer: Consumers can report health issues related to this coffee to the FDA’s MedWatch program at www.fda.gov/Safety or call the manufacturer directly.

9. Will the FDA take action against the manufacturer for this error?

Answer: The FDA monitors recalls and may issue warnings, fines, or require corrective measures from manufacturers to prevent such errors in the future.

10. Where can consumers get the latest food recall alerts?

Answer: Consumers can stay updated on food recalls by visiting the FDA’s official website at www.fda.gov/Recalls.

---

Let me know if you need more details! 😊

Conclusion

This recall highlights the importance of accurate labeling in food products, particularly those marketed as decaffeinated. Consumers should remain vigilant by checking product labels and staying informed about the methods used in decaffeination. For the latest updates on food recalls and safety information, regularly consult the FDA's official communications.​Food & Wine

---

YouTube Video Links:

• FDA may ban methylene chloride, chemical used to decaffeinate coffee beans

• Expert says decaffeinated coffee is safe despite petitions

Search Description:

"Stay informed about the FDA's recent recall of mislabeled decaffeinated coffee due to caffeine content. Learn about the health implications, FDA classifications, and safety concerns surrounding decaffeination processes."​

Keywords:

• FDA coffee recall,

• Decaffeinated coffee mislabeled,

• Caffeine content in decaf coffee,

• Methylene chloride in coffee,

• Coffee labeling errors

Labels:

• Food Safety,

• FDA Recalls,

• Coffee Consumption,

• Health Alerts,

• Consumer Awareness