- Date Issued: March 6, 2025
- Company: Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling, LLC
- Product: Coca-Cola Original Taste 12-ounce cans
- Issue: Potential plastic contamination
- Product Details: 864 12-count packs distributed in Illinois and Wisconsin
- Action: Consumers advised not to consume the affected products
Stick around to find out more about this recall.
What happened?
On March 6, 2025, Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling, LLC, based in Milwaukee, WI, initiated a recall of 864 12-count packs of Coca-Cola Original Taste due to potential contamination with plastic particles. The FDA classified this as a Class II recall, indicating that while the risk of serious health consequences is low, temporary or reversible effects are possible. The issue was identified during routine quality checks at the bottling facility.
Recalled product details:
Brand | Product | Size | UPC (Can) | UPC (12-pack) | Best By Date | Time Stamp |
Coca-Cola | Original Taste | 12-ounce cans | 0 49000-00634 6 | 0 49000-02890 4 | SEP2925MDA | 1100-1253 |
These products were distributed to retailers in Illinois and Wisconsin.
What caused the issue?
Plastic contamination in beverages can happen due to equipment malfunctions, misalignment in the bottling process, or foreign material entering the production line. In this case, Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling, LLC identified potential plastic particles in their Coca-Cola Original Taste 12-ounce cans, leading to the recall.
Why is plastic contamination a concern?
Even small plastic fragments can pose serious health risks. Here’s why:
- Choking Hazard: Plastic pieces can obstruct the throat, posing a choking risk, particularly for young children or elderly individuals.
- Oral and Throat Injuries: Sharp edges on plastic fragments can cause cuts or abrasions inside the mouth, throat, or esophagus.
- Digestive Issues: If swallowed, plastic can irritate the stomach lining, causing nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort.
- Long-Term Risks: Some plastics contain chemicals that could be harmful if ingested in large amounts over time.
Who is most at risk?
- Children and elderly individuals (higher choking risk).
- People with swallowing difficulties (such as those with medical conditions affecting the throat or esophagus).
- Individuals with sensitive digestive systems (who may experience more severe discomfort).
Symptoms to watch for
If someone has consumed a contaminated beverage, they should look out for:
- Immediate symptoms: Choking, coughing, throat discomfort, or sharp pain in the mouth or esophagus.
- Digestive distress: Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or difficulty swallowing.
- Unusual stool changes: If plastic passes through the digestive system, it could cause bowel irregularities.
If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
10 common questions you might have
- How do I know if my Coca-Cola is affected?
Check the Best By Date (SEP2925MDA) and Time Stamp (1100-1253) on the can or packaging. Also, look for Can UPC 0 49000-00634 6 and 12-pack UPC 0 49000-02890 4. - What kind of plastic contamination is this?
While the specific type of plastic has not been disclosed, contamination typically comes from fragments of bottle caps, packaging materials, or production equipment. - Can I see the plastic in the soda?
Not necessarily. Some plastic particles may be small or transparent, making them difficult to detect. - What should I do if I drank from a recalled can?
If you don’t notice any issues, you’re likely fine. However, if you experience choking, mouth pain, or stomach discomfort, seek medical attention. - Can I return the affected Coca-Cola?
Yes. Retailers should accept returns or exchanges for recalled products. Contact Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling, LLC’s customer service for more details. - Is this the first time Coca-Cola has had a plastic contamination issue?
While not common, there have been past recalls for foreign object contamination. The company regularly conducts quality control, but issues can still arise. - What steps are being taken to prevent this in the future?
Coca-Cola and its bottling partners are likely investigating the cause and may implement stricter inspections, equipment upgrades, or process adjustments. - Could this plastic contamination affect other Coca-Cola products?
At this time, no other Coca-Cola products have been recalled. The issue appears isolated to the 12-ounce Original Taste cans. - Is it safe to drink Coca-Cola from a different batch?
Yes, as long as your product does not match the recalled batch details, it is considered safe to drink. - Who can I contact for more information?
You can reach out to Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling, LLC customer service or check the FDA recall notice for the latest updates.
Here’s what you should do
- Check Your Inventory: Examine your Coca-Cola Original Taste 12-ounce cans for the specific Best By Date (SEP2925MDA) and Time Stamp (1100-1253).
- Identify the UPC Codes: Look for Can UPC 0 49000-00634 6 and 12-pack UPC 0 49000-02890 4 on the packaging.
- Do Not Consume: If you have the affected product, do not consume it.
- Contact for Resolution: Return the product to the place of purchase for a refund or replacement.
Behind the brand
Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling, LLC is a prominent bottler and distributor of Coca-Cola products, serving territories across the Midwest and West. In recent years, the company has expanded its operations, acquiring distribution rights in California and Nevada in 2017. While this recall is significant, Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling has not been frequently associated with product recalls. However, similar recalls occurred these recent weeks. For instance, on February 7, Stiebs LLC issued a recall on over 500,000 Organic Acai Bowls due to potential plastic contamination. And on January 24, Deiorio Foods Inc. issued a recall for its 11″ Gluten Free Friendly Cauliflower Shells, distributed in various states across the U.S. due to the potential presence of plastic fragments.
“Events like this highlight the importance of rigorous quality control at every stage of food production. Food safety isn’t just a regulatory requirement—it’s a promise to consumers. People trust that the products they buy are safe, and when issues arise, companies must respond swiftly and transparently. Taking responsibility and implementing preventive measures are key to maintaining consumer confidence and safeguarding public health. This recall underscores that food safety isn’t just about following rules—it’s about protecting the trust that customers place in every sip and bite.” — Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86
Ensuring safe eats
Product recalls like this highlight the critical importance of stringent quality control measures in the beverage industry. Contaminants, even those posing low health risks, can undermine consumer trust and lead to significant financial repercussions. Companies must continually assess and enhance their production processes to prevent such issues.
If you have any questions about this recall or need assistance with sourcing high-quality, safe ingredients, feel free to contact us or explore our range of products. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities!
