Major Coffee Pod Recall Issued Over Decaf Labeling Error
Keurig Dr Pepper has initiated a significant voluntary recall affecting more than 80,000 coffee pods due to a critical labeling error. The recall specifically targets McCafé Premium Roast Decaf Coffee K-Cup Pods, which were incorrectly labelled as decaffeinated but may actually contain caffeine.
FDA Elevates Recall to Class II Health Risk
Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) escalated this recall to a Class II classification, indicating that consumption of these products could result in temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. Although the coffee pods are generally safe for most consumers, individuals with caffeine sensitivity or specific health conditions could experience negative effects from unintended caffeine consumption.
The FDA has established that 400 milligrams of caffeine daily – approximately equivalent to two to three 12-fluid-ounce cups of coffee – represents a safe consumption level for most healthy adults without adverse consequences. However, this recall specifically addresses the risk to those who deliberately avoid caffeine for medical or personal reasons.
Identification and Distribution Details
The affected products consist of 960 cartons, each containing 84 individual coffee pods, distributed exclusively through Amazon to three U.S. states: California, Indiana, and Nevada. Consumers can identify the recalled boxes by several key identifiers:
- Best-buy date: November 17, 2026
- Batch number: 5101564894
- Material number: 5000358463
- ASIN: B07GCNDL91
A Keurig Dr Pepper spokesperson confirmed in a statement to The Independent: "In cooperation with the FDA, in mid-December, we initiated a voluntary recall of a limited number of 84-count boxes of McCafe Premium Roast Decaf coffee K-Cup pods, sold exclusively through Amazon. All consumers who purchased this product were notified directly in mid-December, and all product was removed from sale at that time."
The company emphasized its commitment to "the highest standards of safety and quality in the products we produce and distribute," though it remains unclear whether any consumer complaints have been received regarding this specific labeling error.
Consumer Guidance and Return Procedures
Customers who have purchased the affected coffee pods are strongly advised to either dispose of them immediately or return them to their original point of purchase. Retailers are offering full refunds or product replacements for all returned items.
This recall follows a similar incident involving another coffee brand. In October, Gimme Coffee, Inc. voluntarily recalled its Gimme! Decaf de Agua Coffee Pods after discovering they contained caffeine despite being labelled as decaffeinated. That recall, affecting 252 boxes distributed across ten states including Florida, New York, and Massachusetts, was also subsequently elevated to FDA Class II status.
The Gimme Coffee recall products can be identified by UPC 051497457990 with outer packaging best-by dates of October 15, 2025, and inner packaging best-by dates of September 30. The company reported no consumer complaints as of October 24 and has established dedicated contact channels for affected customers.
These consecutive recalls highlight ongoing challenges in food and beverage labeling accuracy, particularly concerning caffeine content declarations that carry significant health implications for sensitive consumer groups.
