Introduction

In the United States, Keurig Dr Pepper launched a major recall after discovering that thousands of cans labelled as Dr Pepper Zero Sugar contain regular, full-sugar soda. This mislabeling issue affects products distributed in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. The company initiated the voluntary recall on May 23, 2025, after identifying the error. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) later confirmed the issue and classified it as a Class II health risk on June 5.

FDA Labels Recall a Class II Health Risk; Over 19,000 Cases Affected

According to the FDA, the recall includes 19,203 cases of 12-ounce Dr. Pepper Zero Sugar cans, sold in 12-pack and 24-pack formats. The affected cans carry the production code “XXXXRS05165” and a best-by date of February 16, 2026. Keurig Dr Pepper traced the problem to a PepsiCo bottling facility licensed to manufacture its products. The company confirmed that it has removed all affected cans from stores and has received no consumer complaints or health-related reports so far.

Labelling Error Raises Health Concerns for Sugar-Sensitive Consumers

The mix-up could pose serious health risks for people managing conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or obesity, or for those trying to avoid sugar. Dr Pepper Zero Sugar typically contains aspartame, an artificial sweetener. Accidentally consuming a full-sugar soda could cause blood sugar spikes or other short-term effects in vulnerable individuals. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has consistently warned that added sugars in beverages significantly contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.

How the FDA Classifies Recalls

The FDA uses a tiered classification system to rank product recalls by potential health risk:

• Class I Recall: Indicates a high risk of serious health consequences or death.

• Class II Recall: Indicates a moderate risk of temporary or reversible health issues (as in this case).

• Class III Recall: Indicates a low risk, usually involving labelling or packaging errors without health impact.

Source: msn