Over 50 Lyons Magnus nutrition beverages recalled, FDA assures “we take our duty seriously”

03 Aug 2022 --- Lyons Magnus is recalling 53 of its nutritional beverages due to fears of a potential Cronobacter sakazakii contamination. The products range across 12 different brands including Premier Protein nutrition drinks, military Meals Ready to Eat and Oatly Barista Edition. 

The company states the product did not meet the standards of commercial sterility as the root cause of the contamination. It further emphasizes that none of the recalled products are intended for infant consumption and notes that, so far, there have been no complaints or illnesses reported as a result of these products.

“We take seriously our duty to prevent and respond to foodborne illnesses and food contamination events and ensuring the availability of safe and nutritious food and beverage products,” Devin Koontz, lead health communications specialist, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), tells NutritionInsight.The FDA states that ultimately, companies are responsible for the safety of their products. 

Déjà vu?
The contaminant, Cronobacter sakazakii, is the same bacteria linked to an investigation over multiple infant deaths earlier this year. Traces of the bacteria were found in Abbot’s Sturgis plant in Michigan, causing it to shut down. In response to this, some members of the US Congress accused the FDA Commissioner, Dr. Robert Radcliff of “dereliction of duty.” 

“FDA is taking a close look at recent and historical findings during inspections and the current overall industry practices for process control and controlling environmental contamination of Cronobacter.”

Though there are dozens of recalled products, Lyons Magnus states infections due to the bacteria are “rare.” It adds that the common symptoms of Cronobacter sakazakii infection may include fever, vomiting and urinary tract infection. However, it also notes that “vulnerable and immunocompromised populations may be more susceptible to infection.”

Who’s responsible?
Lyons Magnus” press release affirms that they are working in conjunction with the FDA on the recall of the contaminated products and notes that any consumer in possession of these products should dispose of them immediately or return them to stores for a refund. All of the affected products can be identified by the lot codes and “best by” dates.

When asked if they were sure that no products meant for infants were affected, Koontz stated: “As a matter of policy, FDA does not comment on ongoing compliance matters. Importantly, it is a firm’s responsibility to ensure the consistent quality and safety of the products they produce.”

“Ultimately, when problems are found, it is the responsibility of the firm to correct those issues to keep consumers safe,” he concludes.

By William Bradford Nichols