NEW JERSEY — A popular cold brew coffee product distributed in New Jersey and New York has been recalled after federal officials warned it could pose a risk of botulism, a rare but potentially life-threatening illness caused by a toxin that attacks the nervous system.
The recall involves Brooklyn Roasting Company Pasteurized Cold Brew Concentrate, sold in 2.5-gallon bag-in-box containers and distributed between April 1 and June 20, 2026. The company voluntarily recalled approximately 1,219 units, totaling more than 3,000 gallons of product.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the recall was issued because improper room-temperature storage could allow the growth of Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium that produces the dangerous toxin responsible for botulism.
What Consumers Should Do
Anyone who has the affected cold brew concentrate should not consume it. The FDA advises customers to either discard the product or return it to the place of purchase.
Symptoms of Botulism
Botulism symptoms can develop within 12 to 36 hours after exposure and may include:
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Blurred or double vision
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty breathing
- Paralysis in severe cases
Anyone experiencing these symptoms after consuming the recalled product should seek immediate medical attention.
No Illnesses Reported
As of now, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled product. However, health officials stress that botulism is a serious medical emergency, and even small amounts of the toxin can be dangerous.
Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Brooklyn Roasting Company.