The FDA’s Weekly Enforcement Report for the week of February 17, 2016 lists a recall for lemon juice that is being recalled for unapproved color and undeclared color. The product is Sunbest Natural Lemon Juice by Sunco & Frenchie LLC of New Jersey.
This product is sold in 33.5 fluid ounce containers. The UPC number on the product is089625403007. There are 1,736 cases being recalled, with 12 bottles per case. This product was sold in New York. The recall notice does not mention what the unapproved or undeclared colors are. Color additives and food dyes are subject to FDA approval before they can be used in any product that comes into contact with the bodies of people or animals for an extended period of time.
Some food colors can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to it, such as Yellow #5. There is no “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) exemption to the definition of a color additive. Some previously used colors are now banned in the US, most notably D&C Yellow #10, Yellow 2G, Amaranth, Green #1, Green #2, Red #1, Red #2, Red #4, Violet #1, Safflower, and Ferric chloride.
If you purchased the recalled product, do not consume it. Throw it away or return it to the place of purchase for a refund.
