According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), almost 30 beverages have been recalled in 2024 so far due to the presence of harmful ingredients and undisclosed substances. Out of the 28 drink recalls, 86 percent were pulled from shelves because they contained undisclosed elements such as drugs, bacteria, and dangerous chemicals.

The recalls included a tea sold for pain relief which contained anti-inflammatory medication that was not listed on the label. Additionally, apple juice was recalled for containing high levels of arsenic, a toxic metal linked to an increased risk of bladder and skin cancers. Several soda products and flavorings were also recalled for containing undeclared hazardous food dyes, including one known to cause cancer.

The largest recall this year was Fiji Water, with 1.9 million bottles being pulled from the market. The water was found to contain manganese and three types of bacteria, posing potential hazards to consumers. Although the incident was classified as a Class III health hazard, meaning adverse health consequences were not likely, the recall highlights the need for increased regulation and scrutiny in the beverage industry.

Dr. Darin Detwiler, a former FDA and USDA advisor and food safety expert, stated that the number of recalls may be higher than in previous years due to both the increase in undisclosed ingredients in drinks and the growing regulatory pressure on the FDA to enforce stricter standards for food and beverage companies.

Comparing the data, there were 23 beverage recalls at this point in 2023 and 30 recalls in the same time period in 2018. Dr. Detwiler attributed the rise in recalls to labeling issues and the presence of undisclosed ingredients.

One example of a beverage recall this year involved soda products from Charles Boggini Company, including Pink Lemonade, Yellow Lemonade, Yellow Lemonade X, and a flavoring product called Cola Flavoring Base. These products were recalled because the company failed to disclose the presence of food dyes Red 40 and Yellow 5, both of which contain benzidine, a known human and animal carcinogen.

Drinks pose a challenge for regulation, as ingredients may be added at different stages before reaching the consumer. Dispensers and pitchers in fast food chains and restaurants further complicate the situation, as consumers may not be aware of the ingredients present in these drinks.

The FDA's recall information search revealed multiple recalls affecting beverages in 2024. For instance, Tapee Tea, marketed for pain relief and made by The Wiedemann Company, was recalled in January due to the presence of undeclared medications dexamethasone and piroxicam. These drugs can have adverse effects on an individual's health, especially when consumed unknowingly.

PepsiCo also faced recalls, with sugar-free and caffeine-free Schweppes Zero Sugar Ginger Ale being recalled due to the product containing full sugar instead. Mug Root Beer from PepsiCo was also recalled for a similar sugar mix-up.

Moreover, Martinelli's apple juice was voluntarily recalled due to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic, a highly toxic substance that can lead to various health issues, including cancer.

The FDA also issued recalls for several infant formulas. Mead Johnson & Company's infant formula powder was pulled from shelves due to concerns about potential contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii, a bacteria that can cause severe health complications in infants. Additionally, Sammy's Milk, a Californian company, recalled two goat milk formula products for toddlers due to misleading claims on the company's website and social media.

These recalls highlight the need for stricter regulations and better monitoring of the beverage industry to ensure the safety of consumers. The FDA's ongoing efforts to scrutinize and enforce proper labeling and ingredient declarations are essential for maintaining public health and maintaining consumer trust in the market.