Martinelli apple juice recalled over toxin contamination concerns

Martinelli’s apple juice recall overview:

• Who: S Martinelli & Company is recalling 173,616 bottles of Martinelli’s apple juice.
• Why: The recall is due to potential contamination with patulin, a toxin found in rotting apples.
• Where: The recall is effective in multiple U.S. states, including California, Texas, and New York.

Martinelli’s has recalled over 173,000 bottles of its apple juice due to concerns about patulin contamination. The recall affects 7,234 cases of juice distributed across various states in the U.S.

The recall was initiated on March 18 and classified as a Class II recall by the FDA on April 22. This classification indicates that the product might cause “temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects.” 

The affected apple juice comes in a clear bulbous glass bottle with a white metal screw top and is sold in four-packs of 10-ounce bottles. These were produced in December 2023 and have a UPC number of 0 41244 04102 2 with a best-by date of 05DEC2026. 

“In full cooperation with the FDA, Martinelli’s issued a voluntary recall of the small amount of product potentially impacted by this issue,” the company stated. The contamination was discovered during routine testing, and the company has worked with retailers to remove the affected products from shelves.

Potential health risks prompt Martinelli’s apple juice recall

The contaminant found in the recalled apple juice, patulin, is produced by molds in rotting apples. While not considered highly potent, patulin is genotoxic and could potentially be carcinogenic, according to some studies. Patulin is a mycotoxin that is also considered genotoxic. While carcinogenic effects have not been fully established, it can cause nausea, gastrointestinal disturbances and vomiting.

The FDA’s classification of the recall as Class II suggests that the risk of serious health consequences is low. 

Martinelli’s has taken steps to address the issue by collaborating with the FDA and retailers to ensure the removal of the affected products. 

Consumers who purchased the affected apple juice are advised to discontinue use and return the product to the place of purchase for a refund. 

S Martinelli & Company says it has not received any reports of illness or injury related to the recall so far. The company is not currently facing legal action over the recall, but Top Class Actions follows recalls closely as they sometimes lead to class action lawsuits.

Last year, the company was hit with a class action lawsuit alleging it failed to disclose its products contain arsenic, which could potentially lead to significant adverse health consequences.

Are you affected by the Martinelli’s apple juice recall? Let us know in the comments.

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