The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has upgraded the recall of mislabeled Dr. Pepper Zero Sugar cans to Class II, citing a potential health risk for diabetics and others needing to limit sugar intake. The recall, initially announced as voluntary, now concerns 19,203 12-pack and 24-pack cases of 12-ounce cans that were incorrectly labeled as zero-sugar. These cans have been found to contain full sugar, raising concerns about the health implications for consumers.
According to the FDA, the mislabeled product could lead to adverse health effects for individuals relying on the product for dietary restrictions, particularly those with diabetes. A regular 12-ounce can of Dr. Pepper contains 39 grams of sugar, but the recalled cans were found to have the full sugar content instead of the advertised zero-sugar formulation.
The recall was initiated after the FDA determined that the mislabeling could pose a health risk for consumers who require sugar-free products for medical or dietary reasons. The FDA defines a Class II recall as a situation where the use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, though the probability of serious adverse health consequences is considered remote.
The affected cans were produced by Pepsi Beverages Company, based in Jacksonville, Florida, and were distributed to retailers in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. The product code for the recalled cans is XXXXRS05165, with a