Almost 300 canned coffee products have been recalled after the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cited a risk of serious illness and death stemming from the company’s manufacturing process.
The company facing the recall, Snapchill LLC is based in Wisconsin and sells coffee under a variety of brands in cans ranging from 7 to 12 oz.
What is The Risk?
The Snapchill products are being recalled because of the risk of botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says symptoms of botulism include breathing difficulties and muscle paralysis. Symptoms emerge between six hours and 14 days after consuming contaminated products.
What You Need To Know About Botulism
In addition to causing breathing difficulties and muscle paralysis, botulism is known to cause dizziness, double-vision, trouble speaking and swallowing, and general weakness.
Additional possible symptoms include constipation and abdominal distension. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
Identifying Recalled Products
The coffee products recalled by the FDA were sold under a variety of brand names and came in metal cans ranging from 7 oz to 12 oz in size.
The FDA alert says, “The products are identifiable by the language ‘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.”
What To Do If You’ve Already Bought Recalled Coffee
The FDA says that customers with the recalled products in their possession, “Should either destroy the products or return the product to Snapchill or the place of purchase for a refund.”
The agency adds, “Snapchill will offer full refunds for any of these products, with appropriate proof of purchase including a picture of the product(s) before being destroyed.”
How The Recall Came About
The coffee products now being recalled were distributed across the US via different coffee roasters and retail locations, before the FDA flagged a problem.
The FDA notified Snapchill to let them know that the low acid canned foods process that had been used to manufacture the products had not been filed with the FDA, as required by law.
Who Are Snapchill LLC?
Snapchill’s website promises the “most delicious cold coffee you’ve ever had”. They boast “patented technology” that allows them to brew the coffee hot and then cool it instantly to seal in “even the most intricate coffee flavors.”
Among the coffee roasters impacted by the recall are Bent Tree Coffee, Bolt Coffee, Coffee Hound, and Knowledge Perk. A full list of the recalled products can be found here.
Find Out More
No illnesses have yet been reported from the recalled products. Those wanting to learn more about the recall – and the potential for refunds can contact [email protected].
For those who prefer communicating via phone, the company can be rang at (920) 632-6018 Monday-Friday between 8AM and 4PM Central Time.
Increasing Food Recalls
The Snapchill recall is part of a broader trend of food and drink recalls increasing in recent years. Since 2018, the US has recorded a 115% increase in such recalls.
Among the products recalled in recent weeks are Charles Boggini Company sodas, Hy-Vee cream cheese spreads and cookies and cream mixes, and lead-contaminated children’s applesauce pouches.
Not Just Humans Hit By Recall
It’s not just humans who have been hit by the growing number of recalls. In May, Pedigree dry dog food was recalled over fears of loose metal in its products.
In June, TDBBS recalled over 3,500 bags of dog treats owing to the same fear. Full details of these recalls can be found here.
