- Date Issued: May 18, 2025
- Announced by: FDA on May 19, 2025
- Company: R&M Trading LLC
- Product: RM Refresher Instant Milk Tea Powder (all flavors)
- Issue: Contains undeclared milk allergens
- Details: Sold in 1 lb and 3-pack/3 lb formats on Amazon
- Risk: Dangerous for individuals with milk allergies
- Action: Do not consume if allergic to milk; return for a refund
Stick around to sip the full story!
What happened?
R&M Trading LLC of Lakewood, WA has issued a voluntary recall for its RM Refresher Instant Milk Tea Powder products due to undeclared milk allergens. The recall was issued on May 18, 2025, following an FDA inspection in China that flagged mislabeling of ingredients in the non-dairy creamer component. Spoiler alert: it does contain dairy.
While the label mentions whey and caseinate, it fails to actually call out “milk”—a big no-no when you’re catering to the dairy-sensitive crowd.
Here’s the breakdown:
Brand | Product | Size | ASIN / UPC | Best By Date | Issue |
RM Refresher | Brown Sugar Flavor | 1 lb / 3-pack | B0D725TXQW, etc. | 12/15/2025 | Undeclared Milk |
RM Refresher | Honeydew Flavor | 1 lb / 3-pack | B0D7269JC1, etc. | 12/15/2025 | Undeclared Milk |
RM Refresher | Matcha Flavor | 1 lb / 3-pack | B0D71Y85TG, etc. | 12/15/2025 | Undeclared Milk |
RM Refresher | Original Flavor | 1 lb / 3-pack | B0D71YHZX4, etc. | 12/15/2025 | Undeclared Milk |
RM Refresher | Taro Flavor | 1 lb / 3-pack | B0D72CMLBH, etc. | 12/15/2025 | Undeclared Milk |
The affected tea powders were sold exclusively through Amazon from November 18, 2024 to May 7, 2025. So far, no illnesses have been reported—but that doesn’t mean this isn’t a serious issue.
What caused the issue?
Let’s spill the (milk) tea: the problem here isn’t that the RM Refresher Milk Tea contains milk—it’s that the label didn’t say it clearly enough. The product includes whey and caseinate, which are milk-based ingredients found in the non-dairy creamer used in the powder. Yes, you read that right—“non-dairy” creamer sometimes still contains dairy. Confusing? Definitely. Dangerous? Absolutely—for anyone with a milk allergy.
The FDA requires clear allergen labeling of the “Big 9” allergens: milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame. Milk is one of the most common and potentially life-threatening allergens, which is why this oversight triggered an immediate recall.
Why undeclared milk is a big deal
When milk isn’t clearly listed on a product label, it puts certain consumers at serious risk—especially those with IgE-mediated milk allergies. Even small traces of milk can lead to life-threatening reactions, which is why correct labeling is non-negotiable.
At-risk consumers
- Children with milk allergies (one of the most common childhood food allergies)
- Adults who have retained or developed milk sensitivities
- Vegans and people following strict dairy-free diets for health, religious, or lifestyle reasons
Possible symptoms of milk allergy reactions
- Hives or skin rashes
- Stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting
- Wheezing or trouble breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Anaphylaxis (a severe, potentially fatal reaction requiring emergency treatment)
10 common questions you might have
1. I bought this milk tea. What should I do now?
→ If you’re allergic to milk, don’t drink it. Contact Amazon for a refund and reach out to R&M Trading LLC at [email protected].
2. How do I know if I have the affected product?
→ Check the label for the flavors listed (Brown Sugar, Matcha, Taro, etc.) and the best by date: 12/15/2025.
3. What’s wrong with using “non-dairy creamer” if it has dairy?
→ “Non-dairy” is often misleading—some contain milk derivatives like casein or whey. Legally, they still must declare “milk” clearly if allergens are present.
4. I’m not allergic to milk. Should I still be concerned?
→ You’re likely safe, but it’s a good reminder that clear labeling protects everyone. Undeclared allergens erode consumer trust.
5. Can this kind of labeling mistake happen often?
→ Unfortunately, yes. That’s why food manufacturers must audit labels and ingredients constantly—especially when sourcing globally.
6. Are there any confirmed illnesses?
→ No illnesses have been reported as of now—but prevention is the goal.
7. Why does this matter to bulk buyers or private labels?
→ If you sell or source private-label goods, you’re responsible for clear, legal labeling. One small misstep = one big recall.
8. What are the legal consequences for mislabeling allergens?
→ It can lead to FDA enforcement actions, lawsuits, and major brand damage—not to mention the cost of recalls.
9. How can I make sure my products don’t have this issue?
→ Work with suppliers (like Ingredient Brothers!) that offer full traceability, allergen audits, and regulatory guidance.
10. Is there a way to report a reaction or issue?
→ Yes. Consumers can report adverse reactions directly to the FDA via their MedWatch page.
Here’s what you should do
- Do not consume the product if you’re allergic to milk.
- Check the label for ASIN numbers and expiration dates listed above.
- Return it to the place of purchase (likely Amazon) for a full refund.
- Questions? Contact R&M Trading LLC at [email protected].
Behind the brand
R&M Trading LLC, based in Lakewood, Washington, operates the RM Refresher brand. Known for selling flavored instant milk teas through online marketplaces, the company has not had any publicly documented recalls before this one. But it joins a growing list of brands hit by undeclared allergen recalls.
Other recent similar recalls:
- On April 28, 2025, JJWV Marketing Corporation issued a voluntary recall of its Ankimo Monkfish Liver product because undeclared milk allergen.
- On April 10, 2025, Momo Tea Inc. announced a recall of their MO-CHA Premium Non-Dairy Creamer because it does contain milk.
“Food safety isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about making sure labels tell the full story. When allergens like milk aren’t clearly disclosed, it’s not just a technical oversight—it puts real people at risk. This RM Refresher recall is a wake-up call: transparency and quality checks can’t be optional. Everyone across the supply chain—from overseas suppliers to co-packers to online retailers—has a responsibility to get it right.” — Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86
The takeaway? Even sweet beverages aren’t safe from labeling missteps.
Ensuring safe eats
This incident serves as a sobering reminder that allergen transparency is non-negotiable—especially when selling bulk or private label products through e-commerce. Brands must review their supply chains and labeling practices regularly to protect consumers and avoid costly recalls.
For businesses and suppliers, staying ahead of food labeling compliance isn’t just a regulatory requirement—it’s a reputation-saver.
If you have RM Refresher’s milk tea in your pantry, double-check those labels and return the product if necessary.
At Source86, we’re committed to sourcing and supplying ingredients that are safe, traceable, and clearly labeled. For more insights and sourcing solutions that prioritize safety, get in touch with our team today!
