FDA Assigns Class II Recall Risk to Brooklyn Roasting Works Cold Brew Concentrate

Food safety remains a top priority for both consumers and manufacturers. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently classified a voluntary recall involving Brooklyn Roasting Works Pasteurized Cold Brew Concentrate as a Class II recall, drawing attention to the importance of proper food processing and regulatory compliance.

Although no illnesses have been reported and no harmful toxins were detected, the FDA's classification highlights potential risks associated with improper storage conditions and missing regulatory documentation. Here is everything consumers need to know about the recall, why it happened, and what it means for food safety.

FDA Issues Class II Recall for Cold Brew Coffee

The FDA has assigned a Class II recall to Brooklyn Roasting Works Pasteurized Cold Brew Concentrate that was distributed across New York and New Jersey.

The recall affects 1,219 units of the company's 2.5 gallon bag-in-box containers, which were distributed between April 1 and June 20, 2026. The company voluntarily initiated the recall on July 2, and the FDA later classified the action as a Class II recall.

The primary concern was the possibility that storing the product at room temperature could create conditions favorable for the formation of Clostridium botulinum toxin, a dangerous substance responsible for botulism.

Importantly, the recall was precautionary rather than a response to confirmed contamination.

Why Was the Cold Brew Recalled?

According to information released by Brooklyn Roasting Works, the recall was triggered because a required FDA Low Acid Canned Food scheduled process filing had not yet been submitted before the product entered the market.

The company emphasized that the issue was administrative rather than the result of contamination.

Brooklyn Roasting Works stated that:

• No Clostridium botulinum toxin was detected.
• No customer illnesses have been reported.
• Independent laboratory testing validated the product during a 105 day shelf life study.
• Testing confirmed no toxin growth during the evaluation period.

Despite these findings, the FDA still classified the recall because products that have not fully met regulatory processing requirements may present potential risks under certain storage conditions.

What Is an FDA Class II Recall?

The FDA uses three recall classifications based on the level of health risk associated with a product.

Class I Recall

This is the FDA's most serious recall category. It applies when there is a reasonable probability that using or consuming the product could cause severe health problems or death.

Class II Recall

A Class II recall, which applies to this cold brew product, means exposure to the product may cause temporary or medically reversible health effects. The likelihood of serious long term injury is considered relatively low.

Class III Recall

Class III recalls involve products that violate FDA regulations but are not likely to cause adverse health consequences. These often involve labeling or packaging issues.

Understanding Botulism

Botulism is a rare but potentially life threatening illness caused by toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.

The bacteria thrive in environments with little or no oxygen, making improperly processed or stored foods particularly vulnerable.

Common symptoms of foodborne botulism include:

• General weakness
• Dizziness
• Double vision
• Difficulty speaking
• Difficulty swallowing
• Muscle weakness
• Breathing problems
• Abdominal swelling
• Constipation

Symptoms typically develop between 12 and 36 hours after consuming contaminated food, although the onset can vary depending on the amount of toxin ingested.

Without prompt medical treatment, botulism can become a medical emergency.

How Botulism Differs From Listeria

Many consumers confuse botulism with bacterial infections such as Listeria, but they are very different.

Listeria causes illness because the bacteria multiply inside the human body after consumption.

Botulism, on the other hand, results from toxins that are already present in contaminated food before it is eaten. These neurotoxins attack the nervous system and can quickly become dangerous if left untreated.

Understanding this distinction helps explain why food processing standards are so strict for low acid foods.

Why Proper Food Processing Matters

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that improper food processing methods can allow Clostridium botulinum to survive and produce toxins.

Foods most commonly associated with botulism include:

• Improperly canned vegetables
• Smoked foods
• Fermented foods
• Seafood
• Meat products
• Other low acid foods

Strict manufacturing procedures, temperature controls, and regulatory documentation help reduce these risks and protect public health.

Even when no contamination has been detected, manufacturers may voluntarily recall products if required processing documentation is incomplete or if safety cannot be fully verified.

What Consumers Should Do

Anyone who has purchased the affected Brooklyn Roasting Works Pasteurized Cold Brew Concentrate should avoid consuming it.

Consumers should:

• Check whether their product matches the recalled lot.
• Discard the affected product.
• Contact the retailer or manufacturer if additional information is needed.
• Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms consistent with botulism develop after consumption.

Although no illnesses have been linked to this recall, health officials recommend exercising caution because botulism can progress rapidly.

Company Response

Brooklyn Roasting Works has maintained that the recall is related to regulatory paperwork rather than confirmed contamination.

The company stated that extensive laboratory testing demonstrated the product remained safe throughout its intended shelf life and that no toxin formation was detected.

Nevertheless, the FDA continues to classify the recall as a Class II event because federal food safety regulations require proper process filings for certain food products before they are marketed.

Final Thoughts

The FDA's Class II recall of Brooklyn Roasting Works Pasteurized Cold Brew Concentrate serves as a reminder that food safety extends beyond testing alone. Regulatory compliance, validated processing methods, and proper storage conditions all play essential roles in protecting consumers.

While no botulinum toxin has been detected and no illnesses have been reported, the precautionary recall reflects the FDA's commitment to minimizing potential risks before they become public health emergencies.

Consumers should stay informed about food recalls and always follow official guidance regarding recalled products. Even precautionary recalls demonstrate how manufacturers and regulators work together to maintain confidence in the nation's food supply.

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FDA Class II Recall Issued for Brooklyn Roasting Works Cold Brew Concentrate

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The FDA has assigned a Class II recall to Brooklyn Roasting Works Pasteurized Cold Brew Concentrate over potential botulism concerns. Learn why the recall was issued, what consumers should do, and the health risks involved.

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Source

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Institutes of Health (NIH)
• Original reporting provided by NTD Television

Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers should refer to official announcements from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the product manufacturer for the most current recall information and safety guidance. This content does not constitute medical or legal advice.