Lemonade Recall Alert: FDA Evaluates Health Risks for Consumers
Over 13,000 cans of Minute Maid Zero Sugar Lemonade are being voluntarily recalled due to a labeling mistake. The affected cans were mistakenly packaged as regular lemonade, which contains sugar. This recall has been classified as a Class II risk by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Understanding the Class II Recall
A Class II recall is defined as a situation where the use or exposure to a violative product may lead to temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is considered remote.
Details of the Recall
The affected products were distributed to retail stores in Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. Consumers can identify the recalled products by the following details:
- UPC Code: 0 25000 12115 9
- Additional Codes: FEB1725CNA and FEB1725CNB
The recalled 12-ounce cans were sold in fridge packs, and while the cans themselves are not mislabeled, the outer packaging contains incorrect information.
Statement from Coca-Cola
A spokesperson for Coca-Cola stated: “In September, Coca-Cola Consolidated voluntarily recalled a limited quantity of Minute Maid Lemonade 12-ounce cans in parts of Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. No impacted product remains in the market, and all recall activities in those markets are complete.”
Recall Statistics
According to a study by Trace One, mislabeling has accounted for nearly 10 percent of all recalls issued by the FDA from 2020 to 2024. Other common causes for product recalls include undeclared allergens, contamination with foodborne pathogens, and the presence of foreign objects.
Previous Recalls for Minute Maid
Minute Maid, a brand owned by Coca-Cola, last faced a recall in November 2021 when three products—Berry Punch, Strawberry Lemonade, and Fruit Punch drinks—were recalled due to foreign matter. That recall was also classified as a Class II risk.
FDA Recall Classification System
The FDA classifies recalls into three categories:
- Class I Recall: The highest risk level, issued when there is a reasonable probability that exposure to a product could cause serious adverse health consequences or death.
- Class II Recall: As explained, this involves a situation where the probability of serious health consequences is remote.
- Class III Recall: This classification is for situations where the use of or exposure to a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.
Increase in Food Recalls
Trace One also reported an increase in food recalls over recent years. From 2020 to 2023, the total number of recalls grew from 454 to 547, reflecting an increase of over 20 percent. All classes of recalls have seen a rise in frequency, with Class I recalls increasing every year since 2020.
Consumers are encouraged to check their pantry for the recalled lemonade and return any affected products for a refund to ensure their safety.
