Bags of ground coffee sold in 15 states across the U.S., including Illinois, are being recalled due to a mislabeling issue. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that some bags of Our Family Traverse Ground Coffee were incorrectly labeled as decaffeinated, leading to concerns for consumers who may avoid caffeine for health reasons.
The recall, which was voluntarily issued on March 13, 2025, by Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA, was classified as a "Class II" recall by the FDA on March 25, 2025. This classification indicates a situation where exposure to the violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, although the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.
The affected coffee, identified as Our Family Traverse City Cherry artificially flavored decaf light roast ground coffee, was distributed by SpartanNash Company out of Grand Rapids, Michigan. It was sold in 12-ounce bags, each bearing the UPC code 0 70253 11080 1, and a best before date of August 3, 2025. A total of 692 cases, each containing six 12-ounce bags, are involved in this recall.
The recall affects consumers in 15 states: Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. This wide distribution raises concerns for many coffee drinkers who may not be aware of the potential caffeine content in the recalled product.
According to the FDA, decaffeinated coffees and teas typically contain some caffeine, with decaf coffee usually having between 2 to 15 milligrams of caffeine per 8-fluid-ounce cup. For individuals who are particularly sensitive to caffeine or who have health conditions that are exacerbated by caffeine intake, this mislabeling could lead to adverse effects such as increased heart rate, anxiety, or digestive discomfort.
Dr. Luciana Torquati, a registered nutritionist and senior lecturer in nutrition at the University of Exeter, emphasized the potential risks associated with caffeine consumption for sensitive individuals. "In children or adolescents, because their bodies are smaller than adults and more naive to caffeine, the usual effects of caffeine might be significantly amplified," she explained. "This can result in increased heart rate, restlessness and anxiety, trouble sleeping, upset stomach and hyperactivity."
Pregnant individuals are also at risk, as their bodies process caffeine more slowly, which can lead to increased fetal heart rate and higher blood pressure. Dr. Torquati noted that this is also true for people with high blood pressure or other medical conditions that could be exacerbated by caffeine intake.
The FDA's warning highlights the importance of checking product labels, especially for those who avoid caffeine for medical reasons. The agency advises consumers who may have purchased the recalled coffee to return it to the place of purchase for a refund. However, no specific instructions were provided regarding what to do with the recalled product.
Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA did not issue a public press release regarding the recall, but the product is currently listed on the FDA's official recall bulletin. The company has been contacted for further comments, but as of now, the recall remains ongoing.
For coffee drinkers, the recall serves as a reminder of the importance of product labeling and the potential health implications of consuming mislabeled items. As caffeine remains a staple in many people's daily routines, awareness of such recalls is crucial for maintaining health and safety.
In the past two decades, coffee consumption in the U.S. has surged, with the National Coffee Association reporting a 40% increase in daily coffee consumption, even outpacing water. This surge has led to a heightened awareness of coffee-related health issues, making recalls like this one particularly significant for consumers.
As the recall continues, consumers are encouraged to stay informed about any updates from the FDA and to monitor their coffee purchases closely. In a market where coffee is a beloved daily ritual for many, ensuring the safety and accuracy of what is consumed is paramount.
In summary, the FDA's recall of Our Family Traverse City Cherry artificially flavored decaf light roast ground coffee underscores the critical need for accurate labeling in food products. With the potential health risks associated with caffeine, particularly for sensitive groups, consumers must remain vigilant about what they buy and consume.
