A massive recall has been issued for canned coffee products over concerns they may contain a deadly toxin that causes botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning.
The recall involves all canned coffee products manufactured by Snapchill. They were distributed nationwide through various coffee roasters and retail locations, as well as through direct online purchase from Snapchill.
According to the Food and Drug Administration, the company's current manufacturing process could lead to the growth and production of the deadly botulinum toxin in the recalled products.
The recall was initiated after federal regulators notified Snapchill that the low acid canned foods process for manufacturing the recalled products was not filed with FDA, as required by regulation.
In a statement, Snapchill said it is working on filing the appropriate notification with FDA. The company said it has been providing roasters with its cold coffee products since 2019 without any known consumer cases of botulism.
"No illnesses have been reported, and Snapchill is not aware of any instances in which the company's products contained this pathogen. Nevertheless, Snapchill is voluntarily conducting this recall in cooperation with the FDA," the statement said.
The recalled products -- 296 in total -- are sold under a range of roaster and brand names, in variety of metal can sizes ranging from 7 oz to 12 oz. The products say "Produced and distributed by Snapchill LLC" underneath the nutrition facts panel. Some of the products can also be identified by the text "Snapchill Coffee" on the label.
Botulism can cause general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. Symptoms can begin from six hours to two weeks after eating food that contains botulinum toxin. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
Want to get caught up on what's happening in SoCal every weekday afternoon? Click to follow The L.A. Local wherever you get podcasts.
Consumers should either destroy the products or return the product to Snapchill or the place of purchase for a refund. Snapchill will offer full refunds with appropriate proof of purchase, including a picture of the products before being destroyed.
Follow KNX News 97.1 FM
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok