Understanding the FDA’s Health Risk Warning: NuNaturals Sweeteners Recalled Due to Mislabeling

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued a Class II risk warning, the second-highest of its kind, following a voluntary recall of two NuNaturals sweetener products. This recall and the associated warning stem from a labeling mix-up that affected the company’s Organic Pure Stevia and Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener products.

NuNaturals, a company based in Eugene, Oregon, is known for its range of sugar-free products. The company initiated the recall on July 14, after discovering that certain lots of their Organic Pure Stevia and Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener were incorrectly labeled. The products labeled as Organic Pure Stevia contained Monk Fruit powder, while those labeled as Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener contained Stevia powder. The FDA issued the Class II risk warning on August 1.

These mislabeled products were sold and distributed to retailers nationwide. The recall encompassed a total of 156 bottles, split evenly between the two affected products. At present, it is unclear what led to the labeling error, and whether any consumers have been impacted by the recall.

For those unfamiliar with FDA classifications, a Class II recall is defined as a situation where “use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote”. A clear understanding of this classification underscores the importance of heeding such recall warnings and taking appropriate action if you have the affected product in your possession.

Both Organic Pure Stevia and Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener are sold in plastic bottles with white caps. The recalled products have specific details that consumers can check, including the Universal Product Code (UPC), lot number, and best-by dates, which are listed below:

For Organic Pure Stevia – 1 oz:

• UPC: 7 39223 00204 0
• Lot number: 25104S
• Best by: 4/2028

The reason for this product’s recall is that the actual content is Monk Fruit powder, although the product was labeled as Organic Pure Stevia.

For Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener – 0.71 oz:

• UPC: 7 39223 00187 6
• Lot number: 25104S
• Best by: 4/2028

The reason for this product’s recall is that the actual content is Stevia powder, although the product was labeled as Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener.

At this time, neither the FDA nor NuNaturals have provided specific guidance on what consumers should do if they have the affected products. However, in general, it is advisable to stop using the recalled product and reach out to the manufacturer or retailer for further instructions.

The NuNaturals recall serves as a reminder of the importance of proper labeling in food and beverage products. As consumers, it’s also a reminder to stay informed about the products we consume and to respond promptly to any recall notifications to ensure our safety and wellbeing.