RECALL ALERT: Marking yet another food safety oversight fiasco, Coca-Cola has announced a major recall impacting one of its products.
Specifically, the recall targets contaminated bottled water after potentially dangerous bacteria were found in their premium product.
Despite assurances of a “very low” risk to the general public, the recall raises questions about safety standards in bottled water.
Coca-Cola announced the voluntary recall of limited quantities of Topo Chico Mineral Water due to potential contamination with Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria.
Topo Chico was acquired by Coca-Cola in 2017 for $220 million and is marketed as a premium mineral water.
The affected products were distributed to about 40 retail locations across Arizona, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas.
The recall specifically targets 16.9-ounce glass bottles sold in 18-packs with lot numbers 11A2543, 12A2543, or 13A2541.
Consumers who purchased these products between May 20 and May 29, 2025, particularly from select Costco warehouses in Texas and Louisiana, should check their bottles immediately.
While no illnesses have been reported so far, the contaminated bottles pose potential health risks, especially to vulnerable populations with weakened immune systems.
The bacteria in question, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are commonly found in water sources and healthcare settings.
It can lead to serious infections in vulnerable individuals and is often resistant to antibiotics, making it particularly concerning for elderly Americans or those with compromised immunity.
This recall highlights ongoing concerns about product safety standards as this incident demonstrates how quickly everyday products can become potential health hazards.
Coca-Cola released a statement addressing the recall:
“The quality and safety of our products is our top priority. Due to a potential contamination of pseudomonas we have voluntarily recalled a limited quantity of Topo Chico Mineral Water 16.9 ounce glass bottle products. All impacted product has been removed from store shelves at the approximate 40 retail locations across Arizona, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas, and no illnesses have been reported.”
Costco recently issued notifications to its members, alerting them to the potential contamination.
Both Sam’s Club and Costco locations have been affected by this recall, with the major retailers removing the contaminated products from their shelves.
The incident raises important questions about quality control in the American food and beverage supply chain.
Consumers who purchased the affected Topo Chico products can return them for a full refund or exchange.
Coca-Cola has also established a dedicated customer service line for consumers with questions or concerns about the recall.
Anyone experiencing any illness after consuming these products must seek medical attention immediately.
