A Rare Mix-Up: How Alcohol Got Into Some Celsius Cans
The Celsius brand is known for its line of non-alcoholic, health-focused energy drinks designed to provide a natural energy boost with zero sugar and a proprietary blend of ingredients. However, a highly unusual incident in mid-2025 led to a specific product line containing alcohol, sparking consumer concern. The issue originated not with Celsius, but with their shared can supplier and the alcoholic seltzer company High Noon. Empty Celsius-branded cans were mistakenly sent to the High Noon facility, where they were subsequently filled with vodka seltzer.
The Recall and Affected Products
Following the discovery, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and High Noon issued a voluntary recall for the affected products. The recall specifically impacted certain High Noon Beach Variety packs that may have contained mislabeled cans of Celsius Astro Vibe Sparkling Blue Razz Edition. Consumers were advised to check for specific lot codes printed on the bottom of the cans to determine if their product was part of the recall. These mislabeled Celsius cans were primarily distinguished by having a silver top, unlike the standard black tops, and were shipped to retailers in several states, including Florida, New York, and Virginia. The quick action and transparency from the companies and the FDA helped minimize potential health risks and informed consumers of the situation.
Why Mixing Energy Drinks and Alcohol is Risky
Even outside of an accidental mix-up, intentionally combining energy drinks and alcohol poses significant health risks. Celsius, like other energy drinks, contains a high amount of caffeine, often around 200mg per can. When mixed with alcohol, a depressant, the caffeine can mask the feeling of intoxication. This can lead to consumers drinking more alcohol than they normally would, increasing the risk of alcohol poisoning, impaired judgment, and alcohol-related injuries. The combination can also put strain on the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure, and in some cases, irregular heart rhythms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns against this dangerous combination, noting that binge drinking is three times more likely when alcohol is mixed with energy drinks.
Comparing Standard Celsius to Recalled Cans
To better understand the difference, here is a comparison table outlining the key characteristics of a standard Celsius energy drink versus the recalled, mislabeled can:
| Feature | Standard Celsius (e.g., Astro Vibe) | Recalled Celsius Can (actually High Noon) |
|---|---|---|
| Contents | Non-alcoholic, energy drink | Alcoholic vodka seltzer |
| Caffeine | 200mg per can | None |
| Alcohol by Volume (ABV) | 0% | Approx. 4.5% (consistent with High Noon) |
| Primary Function | Provides an energy boost, accelerates metabolism | Alcoholic beverage, recreational consumption |
| Can Top Color | Black (standard) | Silver (distinctive for recalled cans) |
| Ingredients | Carbonated water, citric acid, taurine, guarana, green tea extract, vitamins | Vodka, sparkling water, natural fruit flavors |
| Retail Origin | Any standard beverage retailer | High Noon Beach Variety 12-packs |
A Broader Look at Energy Drink Ingredients
The mislabeling incident provides a good opportunity to examine the standard ingredients found in Celsius and other energy drinks, beyond just the presence of caffeine. Celsius's proprietary MetaPlus blend is advertised as a functional ingredient blend, including ingredients like green tea extract, guarana, and ginger. Green tea extract contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been studied for its potential to boost metabolism. Guarana seed extract is a natural source of caffeine, providing an additional stimulant effect. Other common ingredients in energy drinks include taurine, an amino acid, and various B vitamins, such as B12 and B6, which are essential for energy production. These ingredients, while typically safe for consumption in moderation by healthy adults, carry risks when abused or combined with other substances like alcohol. The high stimulant content can lead to side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, and an increased heart rate, and these effects are compounded when alcohol is also consumed.
Conclusion: The Takeaway for Consumers
In conclusion, no standard, properly labeled Celsius energy drink contains alcohol. The incident in 2025 was a rare manufacturing and labeling error, resulting in a specific lot of Celsius Astro Vibe Sparkling Blue Razz cans being mislabeled and filled with High Noon vodka seltzer. This issue was quickly addressed with a recall. However, this event serves as an important reminder about product safety and the risks associated with mixing high-caffeine energy drinks and alcohol. Consumers should always check product details, especially during a recall, and be mindful of the significant health risks posed by combining stimulants and depressants. For reliable information and updates on recalls, consumers can refer to official sources like the FDA and company websites.
Official FDA Recall Information
For detailed information regarding the specific recall, consumers can consult the official FDA website, which published the recall notice initiated by High Noon. Link: FDA Recall Notice
Celsius Production Details and Quality Control
Following the recall, Celsius reiterated its commitment to consumer safety and supported High Noon's efforts to manage the voluntary recall. The incident underscored the vulnerabilities within the supply chain, particularly for companies that share packaging suppliers. Both companies worked to ensure the mislabeled products were removed from shelves and that consumers were properly informed. This type of recall is a testament to the importance of robust quality control processes and transparency when a mishap occurs, even if it is an isolated event caused by a third-party supplier.
Consumer Actions and Safety
If you purchased a Celsius Astro Vibe Sparkling Blue Razz can with a silver top or within a recalled High Noon Beach Variety pack between July 21 and July 23, 2025, you should not consume the liquid. Instead, you should check the lot codes and contact High Noon Consumer Relations for information on next steps and refunds. Most importantly, this recall was limited in scope, and properly labeled Celsius products remain a non-alcoholic beverage option. The best course of action is to verify product codes and tops and to be aware of the ongoing health concerns related to combining caffeine and alcohol.
