The FDA has issued a sweeping recall on over 170,000 bottles of S Martinelli & Company’s apple juice, citing potential contamination with a dangerous toxin.
At a Glance
- 173,616 Martinelli’s apple juice bottles recalled nationwide
- Patulin contamination could cause nausea, vomiting, and other health issues
- Recall spans 28 states, classified as Class II by FDA
- Martinelli’s pledges full cooperation and consumer transparency
Details of the Recall
S Martinelli & Company has initiated a voluntary recall of 173,616 bottles of its popular apple juice, the FDA confirmed. The recall, detailed by Forbes, stems from concerns over possible patulin contamination—a toxin produced by mold that can resist heat treatments like pasteurization.
The affected product is packaged in 10-ounce round glass bottles with a white metal screw cap, marked by UPC code “0 41244 04102 2” and a best-by date of December 5, 2026. Distribution reached 28 states, creating wide consumer exposure.
Patulin ingestion can lead to nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress. The FDA sets the maximum allowable patulin concentration in apple juice at 50 micrograms per kilogram. Martinelli’s, while using flash-pasteurization and hot-filling methods, could not guarantee elimination of the toxin, as noted on Martinelli’s website.
Geographical Impact and Consumer Guidance
The Class II classification from the FDA signals that while adverse effects are unlikely to be severe, temporary or medically reversible harm is possible. Affected states include Alabama, Arizona, California, New York, Texas, and Virginia, among others.
Consumers who purchased the impacted bottles are urged to return or discard them immediately to avoid health risks. The FDA emphasized that this is a precautionary step to uphold public safety.
According to an FDA statement, patulin is produced by molds like Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Byssochylamys, often growing on fruits and grains.
Company Response and Ongoing Efforts
Founded in 1868, Martinelli’s has long been a trusted name in apple juice production. Despite the recall setback, the company reassures customers of its dedication to quality and transparency. Martinelli’s confirmed that about 7,234 cases of the 10-ounce bottles are involved in the recall.
As highlighted by Fox News, the company is cooperating fully with the FDA, working toward resolving the issue swiftly.
Martinelli’s flash-pasteurization and rapid cooling techniques usually help retain flavor while minimizing contamination risk. However, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in food safety even among reputable brands.
The FDA and Martinelli’s urge consumers to check their pantries and stay vigilant as corrective measures unfold.
