‘Death Wish Coffee’ recalled over fatal toxin
NEW YORK CITY (Reuters) — Death Wish Coffee Co., a New York coffee maker that sells what it says is the “World’s Strongest Coffee,” is recalling cans of its Nitro Cold Brew because of the risk that some could contain the deadly toxin botulin.
No illnesses have been reported to date, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said in a recall notice earlier this week, but urged people who bought the 325 ml cans to either dispose of them or return them with proof of purchase for a refund.
Demand for coffee and beer made bubbly with nitrogen, rather than carbon dioxide, has risen over the past year with consumers enjoying the smaller bubbles and the denser foam that the gas produces.
But Death Wish said there is a remote risk that its nitrogen-containing products may contain Clostridium botulinum, a pathogen that can lead to the growth and production of botulin in low acid foods sold in reduced oxygen packaging.
Botulin can lead to a potentially fatal form of food poisoning known as botulism with symptoms including weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble speaking or swallowing, according to the FDA.
The founder and owner of Death Wish Coffee Co. Mike Brown, said in a statement that the recall was precautionary, and that the company has passed all FDA and state inspections since it launched the brew.
“If you have it, chuck it out and we’ll cut you a cheque within 60 days,” the company said in a statement.