FDA issues Class II recall over mislabelled NuNaturals sweeteners

NuNaturals, Inc. has voluntarily recalled two sugar-free sweeteners after discovering a serious labelling error that could pose health risks to allergy sufferers.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has since issued a Class II recall, its second-highest level of warning, on the affected products.

The recall, which began on 14 July, applies to specific lots of NuNaturals Organic Pure Stevia and NuNaturals Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener. An investigation revealed that bottles labelled as Organic Pure Stevia actually contained monk fruit powder, while those labelled as Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener contained stevia.

The FDA officially classified the recall as Class II on 1 August, which the agency defines as:

A situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”

The mislabelling error poses a risk for individuals with allergies or sensitivities. Because stevia comes from a plant in the ragweed family, it can trigger allergic reactions in people sensitive to ragweed. While monk fruit allergies are rare, they can still affect some consumers. To date, no one has reported illnesses or adverse reactions linked to this recall.

The affected products are:

• Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener – UPC: 7 39223 00187, Lot: 25104S
• Organic Pure Stevia – UPC: 7 39223 00204 0, Lot: 25104S

NuNaturals has not disclosed where the recalled products were distributed or sold.

Similar recalls from the last week

This recall comes amid a flurry of labelling-related incidents last week affecting food and drink products on both sides of the Atlantic.

In the US, High Noon recalled two lots of its 12-pack Beach Variety Pack after discovering that some cans contained vodka seltzer but were incorrectly labelled as Celsius Astro Vibe Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition. This labelling mix-up created a significant risk of unintentional alcohol consumption, particularly among children, drivers, and individuals abstaining from alcohol for health or religious reasons.

Meanwhile, in the UK, Lidl GB issued a recall of its Red Hen 4 Tempura Chicken Steaks after discovering that the product’s label did not clearly highlight milk as an ingredient, posing a health risk for consumers with dairy allergies.