Martinelli & Company has voluntarily recalled over 170,000 bottles of its signature apple juice due to potential contamination with patulin, a toxic substance produced by molds that can grow on decaying apples. This recall has sparked concerns among consumers and health experts alike. With thousands of bottles already in circulation, here’s what you need to know about this widespread recall and the risks it poses.
Martinelli’s Apple Juice Recall: Key Details
Martinelli & Company, based in Watsonville, California, officially announced the recall of its apple juice on March 18th, citing concerns of potential contamination with patulin, a harmful substance. The recall affects 7,234 cases of the popular apple juice, each containing four 10-ounce glass bottles per pack, with six packs per case. This brings the total number of recalled bottles to 173,616. The recall has been classified as Class II by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), indicating that while exposure to the product could lead to temporary or medically reversible health issues, it is unlikely to cause serious or long-term harm.
Which States Were Affected by the Apple Juice Recall?
According to the FDA, the affected cases of apple juice were distributed across 28 U.S. states, including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
The recalled apple juice was sold in 10-ounce “bulbous” or round glass bottles with a white metal screw-top lid, as noted in the FDA’s enforcement report. These bottles carry a “best by” date of December 5th, 2026, and are identified by the UPC number “0 41244 04102 2.”
What to Do if You Have the Affected Product?
If you have purchased any of the recalled Martinelli’s Apple Juice, the FDA advises that you immediately stop consuming it. Consumers who possess the affected bottles should either discard them or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. For further guidance, you can contact S. Martinelli & Company at 1-800-622-1868 or visit the FDA’s website for more details.
What Is Patulin?
Patulin is a toxic substance produced by molds that can grow on decaying fruits, particularly apples. It is considered harmful when consumed, as it can lead to a range of health issues, including gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. While the FDA has set limits for patulin in food products, its presence in contaminated items like apple juice can pose a risk, especially if consumed in significant amounts.
Patulin is not typically visible in contaminated products, which is why routine testing and recalls are crucial to consumer safety. Also, the pasteurization process cannot remove patulin from the affected product, the FDA says.
If you believe you have consumed a product contaminated with patulin, it’s important to stay alert for any symptoms of illness. While patulin exposure is typically not life-threatening and effects are usually temporary, it’s advisable to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms.
In case of significant concern or if you are unsure about your symptoms, contact a healthcare provider for guidance. You should also report the incident to the FDA or the manufacturer of the product for further investigation and assistance.