Over 2 Million Cans of Coconut Water Recalled Nationwide Due to Botulism Risk

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall on 2,033,256 cans of coconut water due to a packaging issue that poses a botulism risk. The product was sold in 29 states.

The Jarritos brand coconut water was packaged in 17.5-ounce cans. The cans may have a compromised hermetic seal, which can potentially cause the cans to leak, bloat, or allow bacteria like Clostridium botulinum to grow inside. All lot codes are included in the recall.

The affected products were sold at retailers in the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Exposure to the Clostridium botulinum bacteria can cause botulism, a rare but serious illness that may cause bloating, constipation, muscle weakness, double vision, dizziness, trouble speaking or swallowing, and difficulty breathing. If you're experiencing symptoms of botulism, immediately see your doctor or go to the emergency room, warns the U.S. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The recall was initiated on November 4, 2024 and is ongoing. It's considered a class II recall by the FDA, which is defined as: "a situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote."

If you have the affected product in your home, dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund.