A batch of multivitamins has been withdrawn from the US market following the discovery of undeclared substances, including acetaminophen, dexamethasone phosphate, and the artificial sweetener aspartame. This recall was voluntarily undertaken by Armonia Natural Store LLC, which removed its OneMultivitaminic GAF-PLUS Advance product from circulation on Monday. Approximately 64 units of the company’s 300 ml bottles have been implicated in this recall.
The distribution of these vitamins primarily spanned several states: Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, Nebraska, Illinois, California, and Wisconsin, according to Newsweek.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) categorized the recall as Class II, which pertains to scenarios where exposure to a compromised product could lead to temporary or reversible health effects with a minimal likelihood of severe outcomes. For context, a Class I recall indicates a significant probability of serious health risks or mortality, while a Class III recall refers to products unlikely to cause adverse health effects.
Acetaminophen, a prevalent pain reliever and fever reducer belongs to the analgesic and antipyretic drug classes. Its primary function involves reducing discomfort and regulating body temperature. However, excessive consumption poses risks of liver damage, with severe cases necessitating liver transplants or resulting in fatality, as per Newsweek.
Dexamethasone phosphate, conversely, is often administered to manage acute allergic reactions and is typically delivered via injection. Notable side effects include sore throat, fever, seizures, visual disturbances, and hives, among others, as detailed by MedlinePlus.
Hummus Contamination Spurs Additional Recall
In a related incident, Cedar’s Mediterranean Foods Inc. issued a voluntary recall of its Member’s Mark Roasted Red Pepper Hummus following contamination by foreign materials. This recall, initiated on October 9, affects 32-ounce containers of the product and has been classified as Class II by the FDA.
The compromised hummus units, marked with product code 193968044268, have best-if-used-by dates of November 21, 2024 (lot code 20I24) and November 23, 2024 (lot code 40I24). A total of 23,136 units were distributed across 10 states, including North Carolina, Texas, Ohio, New York, Georgia, Minnesota, Indiana, Virginia, Maryland, and Louisiana, according to the reports by Newsweek.
Both recalls underscore the importance of stringent quality control measures in safeguarding public health, highlighting the proactive steps taken by manufacturers to mitigate potential risks.