Martinelli’s Recall of Apple Juice

Introduction to the Recall

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that Martinelli’s has issued a recall for 170,000 bottles of apple juice over potential toxic contamination.

The California-based S. Martinelli & Company initiated the voluntary recall on March 18 for 7,234 cases — more than 170,000 bottles — over a possible contamination with patulin, which is a mycotoxin.

Affected Areas and Products

The recalled cases, which have a "best by" date of Dec. 5, 2026, were distributed to the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

What are Mycotoxins?

Mycotoxins are toxins produced by mold, which under warm and humid conditions can grow on foods such as apples, dried fruits, cereals, nuts, and more. Patulin is often found in rotting apples and apple products, primarily created by the aspergillus, penicillium, and byssochlamys molds.

Health Effects of Patulin Ingestion

Patulin ingestion can cause nausea, gastrointestinal disturbances, and vomiting. For other mycotoxins, adverse health effects can "range from acute poisoning to long-term effects such as immune deficiency and cancer," the World Health Organization said.

Reported Health Problems

NBC News reports that there have not been any reported health issues related to the recall as of Monday. The affected product’s UPC number is 0 41244 04102 2.

Conclusion

The recall of Martinelli’s apple juice due to potential contamination with patulin is a significant concern for public health. Consumers who have purchased the affected products should check the "best by" date and UPC number to determine if their product is part of the recall. It is essential to follow proper food safety guidelines to minimize the risk of mycotoxin exposure.

FAQs

• Q: What is the reason for the Martinelli’s apple juice recall?
  A: The recall is due to potential contamination with patulin, a mycotoxin.
• Q: How many bottles of apple juice are affected by the recall?
  A: Over 170,000 bottles are affected.
• Q: What are the health effects of patulin ingestion?
  A: Patulin ingestion can cause nausea, gastrointestinal disturbances, and vomiting.
• Q: Have there been any reported health issues related to the recall?
  A: As of Monday, there have not been any reported health issues related to the recall.
• Q: How can I determine if my product is part of the recall?
  A: Check the "best by" date (Dec. 5, 2026) and the UPC number (0 41244 04102 2) to determine if your product is part of the recall.