A nationwide two-sweetener recall has been initiated after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found a mislabelling problem that could cause allergic reactions in some people.
Eugene, Oregon-based NuNaturals, Inc., voluntarily recalled some lots of its Organic Pure Stevia and Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener on July 14. On August 1, the FDA categorised the recall as a Class II risk, which means it can cause temporary or reversible adverse health effects in some people, but serious injury is unlikely. Why the Recall Matters
The FDA’s Class II rating is the second-highest level of three possible risk categories. It means that the product has the potential to cause health issues—most notably in people with certain allergies.
Stevia, for example, causes allergies in people with ragweed and other plant allergies. The effects can be as mild as hives and swelling or as severe as anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that can lead to death and disrupt breathing.
Although monk fruit allergies are rare, they can occur. People allergic to monk fruit may also react similarly to eating mislabelled products.
What went wrong
The issue all comes down to labelling errors:
- Some Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener bottles contained stevia powder instead.
- Some Organic Pure Stevia bottles contained monk fruit instead.
For non-sensitive individuals, the confusion will not be a problem—but for sensitive individuals, this could be dangerous.
Products affected
The FDA has recalled the following products:
- Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener – 78 bottles – UPC: 7 39223 00187 6 – Best-by: April 2028 – Lot number: 25104S
- Organic Pure Stevia – 78 bottles – UPC: 7 39223 00204 0 – Best-by: April 2028 – Lot number: 25104S
Both products were packed in white cap plastic bottles, from 0.71oz to 1oz. They were directly shipped to stores and consumers nationwide.
What the FDA says
On its website, the FDA reminds consumers:
“People with food allergies should read labels and avoid the foods they are allergic to. The law requires that food labels identify the source of all major food allergens used to make the food.”
The agency also indicates that such recalls happen in case of improper labelling of food or the presence of a risk of health hazard to the consumers, such as contamination or a foodborne illness outbreak.
What to do if you have these products
The FDA advises that those who are allergic or hypersensitive to stevia, the ragweed and related plants, or monk fruit should not take the recalled products.
If you purchased a recalled bottle, the best course is not to use it immediately. You can contact NuNaturals, Inc. for refund or replacement information.
Recall status
The FDA now shows the recall as active. This means affected products might still be in homes or on store shelves, and the company is making attempts to remove them from circulation.
It’s always better to look in your cupboard and ensure that lot numbers and UPC codes are checked prior to using these sweeteners. While you might not be allergic, your visitor might be, so it’s advisable to exercise caution.
The bigger picture
This recall is a reminder of how important good food labelling is. For most individuals, the distinction between stevia and monk fruit primarily comes down to personal preference. But for allergy sufferers, it could mean the difference between a normal day and an ER visit.
With the FDA monitoring the situation closely, more information is imminent. Meanwhile, the FDA urges consumers to double-check packaging and monitor for recall notices to safeguard themselves and their families.
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