- Date of Recall: May 28, 2025
- Company: The Coca-Cola Company
- Product: Topo Chico Mineral Water Carbonated, 16.9 fl oz bottles
- Issue: Potential contamination with Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- Details: 241 cases (18 bottles per case), distributed in AZ, LA, NM, NV, TX
- Action: Don’t drink it—return or discard immediately
Wanna know more about what happened? Keep on reading.
What Happened?
On May 28, 2025, Coca-Cola issued a voluntary recall for Topo Chico Mineral Water due to potential contamination with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacteria that poses health risks, particularly to vulnerable individuals. The recall came after a distributor mistakenly shipped cases of product that had been placed on hold. While no illnesses have been reported, the FDA has classified this as a Class II recall, meaning the health risk is moderate but real.
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Code Information | Best By Date | Issue |
Topo Chico | Mineral Water Carbonated | 16.9 fl oz (500mL) | 0 21136 18061 9 Case: 0 21136 18062 6 | Lot #11 A 2543, Lot #12 A 2543, Lot #13 A 2541 | Not listed | Pseudomonas contamination |
Distributed in: Arizona, Louisiana, New Mexico, Nevada, and Texas
Product Made in: Monterrey, Mexico
Cases Recalled: 241 cases, with 18 bottles per case
What Caused the Issue?
The potential contamination stems from the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that thrives in water systems and can pose a variety of health risks. In healthy individuals, exposure may not cause major issues, but for those with weakened immune systems, infants, and the elderly, it can result in more serious infections.
Why This Matters
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is known for its resistance to many antibiotics and can cause infections such as:
- Respiratory infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Skin and wound infections
- Bloodstream infections in severe cases
The contamination can occur during bottling if sanitation protocols are not strictly followed or if water systems are compromised.
Groups Most at Risk
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Elderly adults
- Hospitalized patients
- Infants and young children
- Individuals with cystic fibrosis or chronic lung conditions
Common Symptoms
Depending on the route of exposure, symptoms may include:
- Skin irritation or rashes
- Ear pain or discharge
- Eye redness or infection
- Cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath
- Fatigue or fever in more serious infections
10 Common Questions You May Have
1. Is it safe to drink Topo Chico right now?
Only if it is not part of the affected lot numbers. Always check the label before drinking.
2. How do I know if my bottle is affected?
Check for Lot #11 A 2543, 12 A 2543, or 13 A 2541 and the UPC 0 21136 18061 9.
3. What should I do if I drank it?
If you’re healthy and feel fine, there’s likely no cause for concern. If symptoms appear, consult a doctor.
4. Can boiling the water make it safe?
No, once sealed, the contamination risk exists inside the bottle. Do not attempt to treat it at home.
5. What does Pseudomonas taste or smell like?
Contaminated water may not show any changes in taste or smell, which makes it tricky.
6. Is there a refund for affected products?
Yes. Return the bottle to the place of purchase for a full refund.
7. Can I report my bottle to Coca-Cola?
Yes. Contact Coca-Cola’s customer service with the lot number and purchase location.
8. Is this the first time Topo Chico has been recalled?
Topo Chico hasn’t had many recalls, but contamination-related recalls are not uncommon in the bottled water category.
9. What is a Class II recall?
It means the product may cause temporary or medically reversible health problems, or the risk is limited.
10. Should I stop drinking Topo Chico altogether?
Not necessarily—just ensure your bottle is not part of the recalled lots.
Here’s What You Should Do
If you’re staring at your fridge wondering if your Topo Chico stash is affected, here’s how to find out and what to do next:
- Look for the Lot Numbers: 11 A 2543, 12 A 2543, or 13 A 2541
- Check the UPC: 0 21136 18061 9 (individual) or 0 21136 18062 6 (case)
- Made in: Monterrey, Mexico
- Don’t Drink It: Discard it or return it to the store for a refund
- Need Help? Contact Coca-Cola or your point of purchase
Behind the Brand
The Coca-Cola Company, based in Atlanta, GA, acquired Topo Chico in 2017 to diversify its beverage portfolio. The mineral water, bottled in Monterrey, Mexico, has gained a loyal following for its crisp taste and branding. However, even the biggest players aren’t immune to recalls.
Other recent recalls of note:
- On June 2, 2025, La Fontanella Food Products LLC recalled Pizza Shoppe’s “Pink Stuff” Creamy Garlic Salad Dressing after discovering elevated levels of lactic acid during routine retention sampling.
- On June 25, 2025, Starway International Group, LLC expanded its initial recall of frozen Siluriformes products, after the USDA discovered even more items slipped into U.S. commerce without the proper inspection credentials.
- On June 25, 2025, Kilwins Quality Confections issued a recall on Mocha Truffles sold from April 28 to May 30, 2025, due to undeclared pecans.
“Food safety protocols aren’t just formalities—they’re the backbone of consumer trust. When contaminated products slip through the cracks, even temporarily, it doesn’t just pose a health risk—it disrupts confidence in the entire supply chain.” said Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.
Ensuring Safe Eats
The Topo Chico recall is a sharp reminder of how vigilance in safety and sanitation is essential, even in something as seemingly simple as bottled water. For suppliers, importers, and private label brands, this reinforces the importance of having:
- Strict quality control systems
- Proactive traceability processes
- Effective recall communication strategies
If you’re in the business of bulk ingredient sourcing, co-manufacturing, or beverage production, every part of your supply chain matters.
Don’t let contamination shake your brand’s credibility; build stronger safeguards today. And if you’re looking for ingredient sourcing that passes the safety test every time. Connect with Source86—we’re here to help you sip safely.
