Yes, it's true: Was Celsius accidentally filled with vodka? The full recall story

In July 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and beverage manufacturer High Noon confirmed a massive product mix-up, revealing that some Celsius energy drink cans were accidentally filled with vodka seltzer. This stunning incident led to a widespread recall and significant concern among consumers about beverage safety.

Quick Summary

A packaging error caused a number of Celsius energy drink cans to be incorrectly filled with High Noon vodka seltzer, prompting a voluntary recall. The FDA-backed notice helped consumers identify the mislabeled products, which were distributed in various US states during July 2025. This mix-up created a potential health hazard for unsuspecting drinkers. High Noon and Celsius are separate brands, and the recall was a result of a shared supplier's mistake.

Key Points

• Packaging Mix-Up: Some Celsius cans were accidentally filled with High Noon vodka seltzer due to a shared supplier error in July 2025.

• Affected Product: The mislabeled items were cans of "CELSIUS® ASTRO VIBE Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition," found within High Noon Beach Variety 12-packs.

• Identification: Cans with the wrong contents had a silver lid, unlike the typical black lid of authentic Celsius drinks.

• Official Recall: High Noon and the FDA issued a recall for specific lot codes shipped to several U.S. states.

• Health Risks: Unintentional alcohol ingestion poses significant risks, especially for minors, those on medication, or individuals with certain health conditions.

• Consumer Action: Consumers were advised to dispose of or return any affected products and check lot codes and lid colors.

The Confirmed Packaging Mix-Up: How it Happened

In a bizarre but true product recall event in mid-2025, a number of cans labeled as Celsius energy drinks were mistakenly filled with High Noon vodka seltzer. This incident occurred due to a shared packaging supplier used by both Celsius and High Noon, an alcoholic seltzer brand owned by E. & J. Gallo Winery. The supplier inadvertently sent a batch of empty Celsius-branded cans to the High Noon facility, where they were filled with vodka seltzer. High Noon initiated the recall after discovering the error, posting a public notice on the FDA's website in late July 2025. The recall garnered national attention, raising concerns among consumers of both brands.

Which Products Were Affected?

The recall specifically involved cans labeled "CELSIUS® ASTRO VIBE Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition" that were incorrectly included in "High Noon Beach Variety 12-pack". Consumers who purchased this variety pack needed to check their cans carefully. A key identifier for the mislabeled cans was their silver lids, distinguishing them from the standard black lids on genuine Celsius products. This difference was vital for safety due to the unexpected alcoholic content.

The Official FDA Recall and Affected Regions

The FDA's announcement, based on High Noon's voluntary recall, provided crucial details. The recall covered two specific production lots distributed between July 21 and July 23, 2025. These lots were sent to distributors in Florida, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Virginia, and Wisconsin. Consumers were advised to dispose of or return any potentially affected cans. This action aimed to prevent any health issues, with no illnesses reported at the time of the recall.

Health Risks of the Accidental Swap

Drinking alcohol unintentionally poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable individuals. Beyond unexpected intoxication, potential medical complications are a concern. Groups facing elevated risks include:

• Minors: Underage consumption of alcohol is dangerous and illegal.
• Individuals with Medical Conditions: Alcohol can be harmful to those with conditions like liver or heart disease.
• Medication Users: Alcohol can interact negatively with many medications.
• Individuals Avoiding Alcohol: Pregnant women, those with religious restrictions, or people recovering from alcoholism could be seriously impacted.

This mix-up highlights the importance of stringent quality control in the beverage industry. For more information, the FDA recall notice provides detailed information [https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/high-noon-announces-recall-its-vodka-seltzer-beach-pack-12-pack-due-inclusion-celsiusr-astro-vibe-tm].

Comparison: Celsius vs. High Noon

The two products involved in the mix-up are distinct, as shown in this comparison:

Feature	Celsius Astro Vibe Energy Drink	High Noon Vodka Seltzer
Beverage Type	Energy Drink	Alcoholic Seltzer
Primary Ingredients	Water, caffeine, vitamins, natural flavors	Vodka, real fruit juice, sparkling water
Alcohol Content	0% ABV (Non-alcoholic)	Typically 4.5% ABV
Caffeine Content	Contains caffeine (e.g., 200mg+ per can)	No caffeine
Intended Use	Energy boost, pre-workout, daily wellness	Recreational alcoholic beverage
Key Risks	High caffeine, potential for jitters or crashes	Intoxication, impaired judgment, health risks of alcohol

How to Identify Affected Cans

To check if your cans are part of the recall, follow these steps:

1. Check the Product Packaging: The mislabeled Celsius cans were exclusively found within High Noon Beach Variety 12-packs. If you bought individual Celsius cans, they are not part of this specific recall.
2. Look at the Lid: Mislabeled cans have a silver lid, unlike the black lid found on authentic Celsius cans. This is the most visible difference.
3. Inspect the Lot Codes: For a precise check, find the laser-printed lot code on the bottom of the can. The affected codes are L CCB 02JL25 with a timestamp between 2:55 and 3:11.
4. Confirm the UPC Code (for High Noon Packs): For High Noon Beach Variety 12-packs, verify the retail code UPC 085000040065.

Conclusion

The question "Was Celsius accidentally filled with vodka?" was definitively answered "yes" by the July 2025 product recall. The incident resulted from a packaging error at a shared supplier, highlighting the critical importance of accurate labeling. High Noon and Celsius, in cooperation with the FDA, acted swiftly to address the issue and protect consumers. This event serves as a crucial reminder for consumers to remain vigilant, carefully inspect product packaging for any irregularities, and stay informed about potential recalls. Public safety relies on both responsible manufacturing practices and informed consumer choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Celsius energy drinks actually contain vodka?

Yes, some cans labeled as Celsius Astro Vibe energy drink were accidentally filled with High Noon vodka seltzer due to a packaging mix-up involving a shared supplier in July 2025.

Which specific Celsius product was affected by the recall?

The mislabeled product was the Celsius Astro Vibe Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition. However, the cans were actually found within High Noon Beach Variety 12-packs.

How can I tell if my Celsius can was part of the recall?

Check the lid color. The mislabeled cans containing vodka seltzer had a silver lid, while legitimate Celsius cans have a black lid. You can also check the lot code on the bottom of the can.

Were all Celsius cans affected?

No, only a small, specific batch of mislabeled cans, which were packaged within High Noon's Beach Variety 12-packs, was affected.

What should I do if I have an affected can?

If you have a can that matches the recalled specifications, do not consume it. Dispose of it or contact High Noon Consumer Relations for information on refunds.

Which U.S. states were included in the recall?

The recalled products were shipped to distributors in Florida, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

What is the danger of drinking the wrong beverage?

Accidentally consuming alcohol from the mislabeled can can lead to unintentional intoxication and poses serious health risks for minors, pregnant women, and individuals with certain medical conditions or who take specific medications.