Thousands of pounds of coffee recalled across 15 states after being mislabeled: FDA

New York Post - Mar 28th, 2025
Open on New York Post

Thousands of pounds of ground coffee have been recalled across 15 states due to incorrect labeling as "decaf." The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a Class II recall of 692 cases of 12 oz bags of Our Family Foods City Cherry Decaf Coffee. The affected products were distributed in states including Colorado, Iowa, and Illinois, among others. The FDA's Class II recall indicates that the use of the mislabeled product could cause temporary or reversible adverse health effects, though serious consequences are unlikely. The recall was initiated on March 13, and consumers are advised to return the product for a refund or replacement.

The significance of this recall lies in the potential health implications for consumers who may rely on decaffeinated coffee for health reasons, such as those with caffeine sensitivities or certain medical conditions. Our Family Foods has stated that the recall does not affect any other products in their lineup and emphasized their commitment to safety and quality. This incident highlights the importance of accurate labeling and quality control in consumer products, emphasizing the role of regulatory bodies like the FDA in safeguarding public health.

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RATING

7.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides an accurate and timely account of a coffee recall affecting multiple states due to a labeling error. It effectively informs consumers about the recall details, including product identification and health risks. The use of authoritative sources such as the FDA and Our Family Foods enhances its credibility. However, the article could benefit from a broader exploration of perspectives and a deeper analysis of the implications of labeling errors in the food industry. While the article is clear and readable, it lacks elements that might engage readers more deeply or provoke significant debate. Overall, it serves as a reliable source of information for consumers but could be improved by incorporating more diverse viewpoints and expert analyses.

RATING DETAILS

9
Accuracy

The article is largely accurate, providing detailed information about the recall of coffee mislabeled as decaf. It correctly identifies the product involved, the states affected, and the classification of the recall by the FDA. The article states that thousands of pounds of coffee were recalled, specifying the quantity as 692 cases of 12 oz bags, which aligns with available data. The mention of the FDA's Class II recall definition and the health risks associated with caffeine consumption are also accurate and verifiable. However, the article could enhance precision by specifying the manufacturer and distributor responsible for the product, as such details are critical for full transparency.

7
Balance

The article maintains a neutral tone and provides a balanced view by including statements from both the FDA and Our Family Foods. However, it primarily focuses on the recall's logistical details and consumer instructions, without exploring the broader implications or perspectives, such as consumer reactions or expert opinions on caffeine labeling. Including viewpoints from health experts or consumers affected by the recall would enhance the article's balance and depth.

8
Clarity

The article is clear and well-structured, presenting information in a straightforward manner. It uses simple language and logical flow to convey the recall details and consumer instructions effectively. However, it could improve clarity by providing more context about the health risks associated with caffeine consumption for individuals with specific medical conditions. This would help readers better understand the significance of the recall.

8
Source quality

The article relies on authoritative sources such as the FDA and Our Family Foods, which are credible and reliable for information about product recalls. However, it lacks citations from independent experts or third-party organizations that could provide additional context or analysis. The inclusion of more diverse sources would strengthen the article's credibility and offer a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.

7
Transparency

The article is transparent in its reporting, clearly stating the recall's details and the FDA's classification. It includes direct quotes from Our Family Foods, which adds to its transparency. However, it does not explicitly mention the methodology used to gather information or any potential conflicts of interest that might affect the reporting. Greater disclosure of information sources and potential biases would enhance transparency.

Sources

  1. https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/bags-of-ground-coffee-recalled-in-15-states-in-the-us-including-illinois-fda/3706964/
  2. https://www.foodandwine.com/our-family-traverse-city-cherry-decaf-coffee-recall-11704490
  3. https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/thousands-pounds-ground-coffee-recalled-mislabeling-error-fda
  4. https://www.prevention.com/health/a64297251/coffee-recall-classified-march-2025/
  5. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts