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Which Protein Shakes Were Recalled? A Complete Guide to Recent Recalls

3 min read

Following a single consumer report of an allergic reaction in late 2024, Orgain voluntarily recalled a batch of its chocolate-flavored plant-based protein powder due to undeclared peanut residue. This is one example of recent incidents affecting the supplement market, raising the question: which protein shakes were recalled?

Quick Summary

Several protein shakes and nutritional drinks have been recalled recently due to issues like microbial contamination, undeclared allergens, and excessive caffeine. Notable recalls include products from Premier Protein, Orgain, and Lyons ReadyCare, with each recall linked to specific health risks and affected batches. Consumers must check product information against official FDA alerts to determine if their items are impacted and how to proceed.

Key Points

  • Lyons Magnus Recall (Aug 2022): A massive recall of over 50 products, including Premier Protein and Aloha shakes, due to microbial contamination risks from organisms like Cronobacter sakazakii and potential for Clostridium botulinum.

  • Orgain Recall (Dec 2024): One batch of Orgain's chocolate plant-based protein powder was recalled nationwide because it contained undeclared peanut residue, posing a risk of allergic reactions.

  • Lyons/Sysco Recall (Feb 2025): Frozen supplemental shakes sold primarily to nursing homes were recalled after being linked to a multi-state Listeria monocytogenes outbreak that caused multiple deaths.

  • International Food Companies Recall (June 2023): The 1st phorm Level-1 Sustained Assimilation Protein was recalled in Missouri due to potential Staphylococcus aureus contamination.

  • Check for Lot Codes: The most reliable way to confirm if a product is part of a recall is to check the specific lot codes and expiration dates listed in the official recall notice.

  • Take Immediate Action: If you possess a recalled product, you should immediately stop using it, quarantine it, and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer or FDA for disposal or refund.

In This Article

Recalls of food products, including protein shakes, are issued to protect public health from potential risks like contamination or undeclared allergens. In recent years, several significant incidents have prompted recalls of popular protein shakes and nutritional drinks. Consumers need to be aware of these alerts to ensure their safety. This guide provides details on notable protein shake recalls and explains what to do if you own one of the affected products.

Significant Protein Shake Recalls

Lyons Magnus Microbial Contamination (August 2022)

A widespread recall in 2022 involved numerous nutritional beverages and protein shakes manufactured by Lyons Magnus LLC due to potential microbial contamination, including Cronobacter sakazakii and the potential for Clostridium botulinum. This recall affected brands like Premier Protein, Aloha, Oatly, and Glucerna, among others. The issue stemmed from products not meeting commercial sterility standards.

Orgain Undeclared Peanut Residue (December 2024)

In late 2024, Orgain LLC recalled a specific batch of its chocolate-flavored plant-based protein powder. The recall was due to undeclared peanut residue found after a consumer reported an allergic reaction. The affected product was limited to Orgain 30g Protein Organic Plant Based Powder – Chocolate 2.01lb tubs with lot code 4172-02-P and expiration date of June 20, 2026.

Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Listeria Outbreak (February 2025)

An outbreak linked to Listeria monocytogenes contamination affected frozen supplemental shakes distributed to healthcare facilities. Recalled brands included Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial. By May 2025, this outbreak was associated with illnesses and deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations in nursing homes and hospitals.

International Food Companies Staphylococcus aureus (June 2023)

International Food Companies recalled 1st phorm Level-1 Sustained Assimilation Protein (Milk Chocolate) in Missouri in mid-2023 due to potential Staphylococcus aureus contamination, which can cause food poisoning.

How to Respond to a Protein Shake Recall

If you discover you have a recalled protein shake, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure your safety and the safety of others.

  1. Stop Consumption: Do not use the product, even if it appears normal. For allergen recalls, consumption can be particularly dangerous.
  2. Verify Details: Check the recall notice against your product's lot code, UPC, and best-by date to confirm it's part of the affected batch.
  3. Isolate Product: Keep the recalled item separate from other food items to prevent accidental consumption.
  4. Follow Disposal/Return Instructions: Adhere to the manufacturer's or FDA's guidance on how to dispose of or return the product safely. For Orgain, customers were directed to contact their Consumer Care Team.
  5. Seek Reimbursement: Contact the place of purchase or the manufacturer for a refund or replacement.
  6. Seek Medical Advice: If you consumed the product and feel unwell, consult a healthcare provider immediately and mention the recall.

Comparison of Recent Protein Shake Recalls

Recall Incident Affected Brands/Products Reason for Recall Primary Health Risk Distribution Scope
Lyons Magnus (Aug 2022) Premier Protein, Aloha, Glucerna, Oatly, and more Lack of commercial sterility, risk of microbial contamination (Cronobacter, C. botulinum) Microbial infection, food poisoning (potentially severe) Nationwide
Orgain (Dec 2024) 30g Protein Organic Plant Based Powder (Chocolate) Undeclared peanut residue (Class I recall) Allergic reaction, potential anaphylaxis for sensitive individuals Nationwide (specific batch)
Lyons/Sysco (Feb 2025) Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Shakes Listeria monocytogenes contamination Severe illness, hospitalization, death, especially among immunocompromised Foodservice/Healthcare (primarily)
Intl Food Companies (June 2023) 1st Phorm Level-1 Protein (Milk Chocolate) Staphylococcus aureus contamination Food poisoning Missouri
Sci-Mx Nutrition (July 2023) Ultra Muscle Strawberry Flavour Dangerously high caffeine levels Acute caffeine toxicity, potentially fatal UK (Home Bargains)

Conclusion: Staying Alert to Recalls

Recalls of protein shakes highlight various health risks from contamination and undeclared allergens. Staying informed through official channels like the FDA is crucial for consumer safety. Always verify product details against recall notices and follow provided instructions for handling recalled items. Subscribing to recall alerts can further help protect yourself and your family.

For more information on food safety guidelines, you can visit the official FDA website.

Frequently Asked Questions

In August 2022, Premier Protein shakes manufactured by Lyons Magnus were recalled due to potential microbial contamination from Cronobacter sakazakii. The specific affected flavors included Chocolate, Café Latte, and Vanilla, with a list of lot codes and best-by dates available on Premier Protein's recall page.

The recall of a specific batch of Orgain's 30g Protein Organic Plant Based Powder (Chocolate) in December 2024 was due to the potential presence of undeclared peanut residue. This voluntary recall was issued as a precautionary measure after a single consumer reported an allergic reaction.

Yes. In February 2025, Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial frozen supplemental shakes were recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes contamination. This outbreak, which was linked to a Prairie Farms Dairy facility, primarily affected vulnerable individuals in healthcare settings.

You should immediately stop consuming the product and check the recall notice for details on how to proceed. It is generally recommended to either dispose of the product safely or return it to the store of purchase for a full refund.

You can stay up-to-date by regularly checking the FDA's website for safety alerts and by following official product safety news sources. Many companies also post information on their websites during a recall.

Cronobacter sakazakii is a bacterium that can cause severe illness, though infections are rare. Symptoms can include fever, vomiting, and urinary tract infections, and it can pose a serious risk to vulnerable populations like infants and immunocompromised individuals.

No, the Orgain recall was limited to a single batch of its chocolate-flavored 30g Protein Organic Plant Based Powder. The affected batch was identified by a specific lot code and expiration date, and no other Orgain products were impacted.

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.