Recent Bottled Water Recalls
Staying up-to-date on product safety alerts is vital for consumer protection. In recent months and years, several brands of bottled water have faced recalls or safety advisories for various issues, from bacterial contamination to foreign particles. The specific brand of water being recalled can vary, so it's important to be aware of the latest alerts issued by regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and manufacturers.
Topo Chico Mineral Water (June 2025)
In June 2025, Coca-Cola issued a voluntary recall of specific lots of Topo Chico Mineral Water due to potential Pseudomonas bacteria contamination. This bacteria is commonly found in soil and water sources. While the health risk to healthy individuals is considered low, it can pose a risk to those with compromised immune systems. The affected products were sold exclusively at select Costco warehouses in Texas and Louisiana between May 20 and May 29, 2025.
Fiji Water (March 2024)
Earlier in 2024, more than 78,500 cases of Fiji Natural Artesian Water were recalled after company testing detected high levels of manganese and certain bacterial genera. A Fiji spokesperson clarified that the recall was voluntary and conducted "out of an abundance of caution" after the issue was discovered during testing. The affected products were identified by specific case and bottle codes.
Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water (November 2023)
In late 2023, Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water was recalled after consumer complaints regarding floating particles in the 1-liter bottles. Over 3,800 cases were recalled, and while the exact nature of the particles was not identified, the FDA issued a Class II classification, indicating a situation where exposure may cause temporary or reversible adverse health consequences.
Table of Notable Bottled Water Recalls
| Brand | Recall Date | Reason for Recall | Affected Products | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Topo Chico Mineral Water | June 2025 | Pseudomonas bacterial contamination | Select lots (Lot #13A2541) sold at Costco in TX & LA | Low risk for healthy individuals |
| Fiji Water | March 2024 | Levels of manganese and bacterial genera detected | Specific 500mL case and bottle codes | Voluntarily recalled as a precaution |
| Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water | November 2023 | Floating particles reported by consumers | 1-liter bottles (codes WB123275 and WB123276) | Class II (potentially temporary health effects) |
| Real Water | 2021 | Link to non-viral hepatitis cases | All alkaline water products | High-risk; prompted DOJ/FDA investigation |
How to Check for Recalled Water
To ensure the bottled water you consume is safe, follow these steps:
- Verify Recipient Lists: If a recall is limited to a specific retailer or location (e.g., Topo Chico at Costco), check for customer notifications from that store.
- Check Batch and Lot Codes: Recalls rarely affect a company's entire product line. Instead, they target specific batches identified by unique codes, often found on the bottle neck, cap, or case. Compare your product's code to the one listed in the official recall notice.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for recall alerts from reputable government websites, such as Recalls.gov or the FDA's website, to receive timely notifications.
- Inspect Packaging: Look for any signs of tampering or damage to the bottle's seal or cap. If the bottle appears compromised, do not consume the contents.
- Contact the Manufacturer: If you have any doubts about a product's safety, contact the manufacturer's consumer service line for clarification.
Why Do Water Recalls Happen?
Bottled water recalls can be triggered by a variety of issues discovered during quality control tests or after consumer complaints. These issues include:
Contamination
Contaminants can be either biological or chemical. Biological contamination includes bacteria like E. coli or Pseudomonas, which can indicate that the water source or bottling process was compromised. Chemical contamination can involve trace amounts of heavy metals like manganese or arsenic, or chemicals like hydrazine.
Foreign Matter
Sometimes, foreign particles can end up in bottled water, leading to recalls. This was the case for Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water in 2023. Common sources can include issues in the filtering or bottling equipment.
Packaging Defects
While not a water quality issue, defective packaging can also lead to recalls. For example, Walmart recalled Ozark Trail water bottles due to lids that could forcefully eject and cause injuries. This type of recall is often handled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) rather than the FDA.
Conclusion
When a consumer asks what brand of water is being recalled, the answer is not always simple, as it can refer to a specific, time-sensitive alert. The most recent high-profile recall involved Topo Chico Mineral Water in June 2025 due to bacterial concerns at Costco. However, other brands like Fiji and Waiakea have also had recent recalls for different issues, highlighting the importance of staying aware of alerts from health agencies. By checking batch codes, following official recall announcements, and contacting manufacturers when in doubt, consumers can take proactive steps to protect their health.
Disclaimer: Product recalls are constantly updated. For the most current information, always refer to official government sources such as the FDA. You can find comprehensive recall information at Recalls.gov.
