Understanding the High Noon and Celsius Recall
In July 2025, a significant product recall captured the attention of consumers across the U.S. when it was announced that some cans of High Noon vodka seltzer had been mistakenly filled and labeled as Celsius energy drinks. The core of the problem stemmed from a shared packaging supplier, which accidentally shipped empty Celsius Astro Vibe Sparkling Blue Razz cans to the High Noon production facility. Consequently, these mislabeled cans were inadvertently used during the filling process for the High Noon vodka seltzer, creating a major consumer safety concern. High Noon promptly issued a voluntary recall, working with the FDA to notify distributors and retailers in affected states.
The Packaging Error and Consumer Identification
The mislabeling was an isolated production issue affecting specific lot codes. The most reliable method for consumers to determine if they had a potentially contaminated can was to check the lot code printed on the bottom. Consumers should also look for a silver lid on Celsius Astro Vibe cans, as the legitimate Celsius product would have a black lid. The affected products were primarily found within High Noon Beach Variety packs but could also appear as single cans. High Noon proactively worked to ensure the affected products were removed from shelves, and no illnesses or adverse events related to the recall were reported.
The Dangers of Mixing Alcohol and Energy Drinks
Regardless of the recall, the topic highlights the inherent dangers of mixing alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, a practice that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations strongly advise against. The issue lies in the conflicting effects of a central nervous system stimulant (caffeine) and a depressant (alcohol). The caffeine can mask the signs of intoxication, leading an individual to underestimate their level of impairment and consume more alcohol than they normally would. This creates a state of being "wide awake drunk," which significantly increases the risk of binge drinking, alcohol poisoning, and engaging in risky behaviors like impaired driving.
Furthermore, the combination places significant stress on the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and irregular heart rhythms. The health risks are magnified for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. For those caught unaware by the mislabeled cans, consuming the alcoholic beverage before a workout could be particularly dangerous and counterproductive, as the New York Times reported.
Comparison: Standard Celsius vs. Recalled High Noon
This table contrasts the standard, non-alcoholic Celsius energy drink with the vodka seltzer that was recalled in Celsius-labeled cans.
| Feature | Standard Celsius (Non-Alcoholic) | High Noon Vodka Seltzer (Recalled) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Boosts energy and metabolism | Alcoholic beverage, recreational use |
| Alcohol Content | 0% ABV | Approximately 4.5% ABV |
| Key Ingredients | Caffeine, vitamins, green tea extract, guarana | Vodka, fruit juice, carbonated water |
| Appearance (Recalled) | Can labeled "Celsius Astro Vibe" with black lid | Can labeled "Celsius Astro Vibe" but with a silver lid |
| Health Impact | Can cause increased heart rate due to caffeine | Can mask intoxication and increase health risks when mixed with stimulants |
| Reason for Concern | Energy drink not intended for high-intensity, long-term consumption | Accidental alcohol ingestion in a non-alcoholic can |
Conclusion
The 2025 High Noon recall, which involved some Celsius energy drink cans being filled with vodka, serves as a powerful reminder of how unexpected production errors can impact consumer safety. While regular Celsius energy drinks do not contain vodka or any other alcohol, this isolated incident necessitated a significant recall and alerted the public to check product markings carefully. Beyond the immediate safety threat posed by this specific error, the event brings renewed focus to the inherent risks of combining caffeine and alcohol. Consumers should always be vigilant about product recalls and understand the potentially dangerous health consequences of mixing stimulants and depressants. To ensure safety, always verify the contents of your beverage, especially if the packaging seems unusual. For more information, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration provides details on current recalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Do all Celsius energy drinks contain alcohol? Answer: No, standard Celsius energy drinks do not contain alcohol. They are non-alcoholic beverages containing caffeine and other ingredients intended to boost energy.
Question: How did Celsius cans end up with vodka in them? Answer: The issue arose from a shared packaging supplier mistake, where empty Celsius cans were accidentally sent to High Noon. High Noon then filled these mislabeled cans with their vodka seltzer, leading to a product recall in July 2025.
Question: What should I do if I find one of the recalled Celsius cans? Answer: Consumers who find one of the recalled cans should not consume the contents and should dispose of the product. The can can be identified by its lot code and silver lid.
Question: What are the risks of accidentally drinking a mix of energy drink and alcohol? Answer: Accidental consumption of this mix can be dangerous. The caffeine can mask the intoxicating effects of the alcohol, leading to overconsumption, impaired judgment, and potential cardiovascular stress.
Question: Was the recall limited to a specific flavor of Celsius? Answer: Yes, the recall specifically affected the Celsius Astro Vibe Sparkling Blue Razz Edition.
Question: Did Celsius manufacture the alcoholic product? Answer: No, Celsius did not manufacture the alcoholic product. The vodka seltzer was produced by High Noon Spirits Co., and the recall was initiated by High Noon.
Question: How can I stay safe from future product recalls? Answer: Always stay informed about recall alerts from official sources like the FDA. Check product details, such as lot codes and manufacturing dates, and dispose of any product that appears unusual or has incorrect packaging.
