FDA and Brooklyn Roasting Company Recalls Over 3,400 Gallons of Cold Brew Due to Botulism Risk
July 28 - 2026
Coffee Geography Magazine
The Brooklyn Roasting Company has voluntarily recalled approximately 3,408 gallons (1,219 units) of its Pasteurized Cold Brew Concentrate because the product may have been stored at room temperature during distribution, creating conditions that could allow the formation of Clostridium botulinum toxin, the Food and Drug Administration announced. The recall was classified as a Class II alert by the FDA on July 21, 2026.
The ready-to-drink cold brew concentrate was distributed exclusively to wholesale customers in New York and New Jersey from April 1 through June 20, 2026. The affected product is packaged in 2.5-gallon bag-in-box containers and carries best-by dates ranging from June 3, 2026, through September 30, 2026, with date codes from 063026 to 093026. Some early notices also reference a best-by window of June 30 through September 30, 2026.
Retail cans and coffee prepared and served directly in Brooklyn Roasting Company cafés are refrigerated and are not impacted by this recall.
Health Risk
Clostridium botulinum is a bacterium that can produce a nerve toxin under certain conditions, particularly when perishable products are stored at room temperature. Botulism is a rare but serious illness that attacks the body’s nervous system and can be fatal. Symptoms include bloating, constipation, muscle weakness, dizziness, double or blurred vision, trouble speaking or swallowing, and difficulty breathing. Anyone who has consumed the recalled product and experiences these signs should seek immediate medical attention.
The FDA classifies this as a Class II recall, a category that generally means exposure to the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. Despite this classification, health officials stress that botulism itself can be life-threatening and must be treated promptly. No illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall.
What Wholesale Customers and Retailers Should Do
Businesses that purchased the recalled cold brew concentrate should immediately check their inventory for 2.5-gallon bag-in-box packages with best-by dates falling between June 3, 2026, and September 30, 2026. The affected product should not be sold, served, or consumed.
• Dispose or Return: Discard the product or return it to the original place of purchase for a full refund.
• Proof of Purchase for Disposed Product: If you have already destroyed or disposed of the affected coffee as a safety precaution, take a clear photograph showing the lot code and best-by date. This image will serve as evidence for your refund claim.
Refund Process
• Wholesale Customers: Contact your original distributor or return the 2.5-gallon bag-in-box unit directly to the place of purchase to receive a full refund.
• Documentation: Present your proof of purchase or the photo of the destroyed product showing the lot code/best-by date.
Company and Regulatory Contacts
For questions about the recall, refund processing, or other support:
• Brooklyn Roasting Company Phone: (718) 855-1000
• Brooklyn Roasting Company Email: info@brooklynroasting.com
• FDA Recall Information Line: 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332)
Consumers with general questions about the recall may also contact the FDA directly.
The Brooklyn Roasting Company says it is cooperating fully with the FDA and has initiated the voluntary recall out of an abundance of caution to protect public health. Wholesale partners and retailers are urged to take immediate action to remove the affected product from circulation.