Coca-Cola has initiated a voluntary recall of over 10,000 cans of its Original Taste soda after concerns arose about plastic contamination in some of the products.
This recall, which affects customers in Illinois and Wisconsin, comes after the discovery of foreign plastic objects inside the cans, sparking safety concerns for consumers. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified the recall as Class II, signifying a moderate health risk.
This recall represents a significant action by the company, as it affects 864 packs of Coca-Cola, each containing 12 cans, with the potential for plastic contamination. The issue highlights the ongoing scrutiny food and beverage manufacturers face to ensure product safety, even with brands that are considered to be well-established and widely trusted.
Recall Details and Affected Products
According to the FDA, the recall concerns Coca-Cola cans bearing the Universal Product Codes (UPC) 0 49000-00634 6 and 0 49000-02890 4. The impacted cans are 12-ounce Coca-Cola Original Taste and were sold in packs of 12.
These products were distributed in Illinois and Wisconsin, with the affected date code marked as SEP2925MDA and time stamps between 11:00 and 12:53.
Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling, LLC, the company behind the recall, initially initiated the action on March 6. On March 24, the FDA elevated the recall to Class II status, a decision that reflects concerns over temporary, medically reversible health risks.
While there is a low likelihood of serious harm, the presence of foreign plastic in the cans could potentially cause injuries, such as cuts or damage to the mouth, tongue, or gastrointestinal tract, especially if consumers inadvertently ingest the material.
What Consumers Should Do
For consumers who may have purchased the affected Coca-Cola packs, the FDA has issued clear instructions. Individuals who possess the recalled products are advised to dispose of them or return them to the store for a refund.
The company has also urged that no further distribution of these products be made to other consumers, including through food banks, following concerns about potential contamination. However, at this stage, no injuries related to the contamination have been reported.
This recall is relatively rare for Coca-Cola, but it follows a pattern of similar recalls in recent years. Notably, in December 2023, Coca-Cola had to recall nearly 2,000 cases of various beverages over the risk of foreign material contamination, although no significant health issues were reported at that time either.
