Snapchill LLC issued a voluntary recall for all of its canned, ready-to-drink coffee products currently within their expiration date due to potential botulinum toxin contamination.
The manufacturing process used to produce the coffee could lead to the growth of botulinum toxin in low acid canned foods such as Snapchill’s coffee products. This toxin poses a significant health risk, according to the FDA recall, and can cause botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning.
The recalled products were distributed nationwide through various coffee roasters and retail outlets as well as through direct online sales. The issue was flagged by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which informed Snapchill that its low acid canned foods process had not been properly filed with the FDA, a regulatory requirement.
The affected products, sold under various roaster and brand names, come in metal cans ranging from 7 oz to 12 oz. Consumers can identify them by the phrase “Produced and distributed by Snapchill LLC” beneath the nutrition facts panel or “Snapchill Coffee” on the label.
To date, no illnesses have been reported, and Green Bay, Wis.-based Snapchill has not found any instances of botulinum toxin in their products. The company is currently working to comply with FDA filing requirements.
Symptoms of botulism include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, and difficulty speaking or swallowing. In severe cases, it can lead to breathing difficulties, muscle weakness, abdominal distension and constipation, according to the FDA recall notice. Symptoms may appear from six hours to two weeks after consuming the contaminated food, and immediate medical attention is crucial for anyone experiencing these symptoms.
Consumers should destroy the products, or return the product to Snapchill or the place of purchase, for a refund. More information about the return and refund is available by sending an email to [email protected].