Brooklyn Roasting Company has recalled more than 3,000 gallons of pasteurized cold brew concentrate distributed to business buyers in New York and New Jersey due to a potential Clostridium botulinum toxin risk. The affected product was shipped in boxed 2.5-gallon bags between April 1, 2025 and June 20, 2026, with best-by dates from June 30 through September 30, 2026. The company says no illnesses had been reported as of July 23, 2026, and clarified that cafe-served drinks and canned cold brew are not included. FDA and CDC guidance urges anyone with botulism symptoms—especially breathing trouble—to seek immediate medical attention.
Brooklyn Roasting Co. Recalls 3,000+ Gallons of Cold Brew Concentrate in NY and NJ Over Botulism Risk
Photo Credit: Brooklyn Roasting Company
Federal regulators have alerted businesses in New York and New Jersey to a large recall by Brooklyn Roasting Company after its wholesale pasteurized cold brew concentrate was flagged for a potential Clostridium botulinum toxin risk.
What Was Recalled
The recall covers Brooklyn Roasting Company's wholesale Pasteurized Cold Brew Concentrate. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns the product may have been stored under conditions that could allow C. botulinum toxin to develop.
Distribution Details
The concentrate was shipped to business buyers in New York and New Jersey in boxed 2.5-gallon bags. The shipments occurred between April 1, 2025 and June 20, 2026. Affected best-by dates range from June 30, 2026 through September 30, 2026.
Company Statement
Brooklyn Roasting Company President and CEO James Munson told USA Today that, as of July 23, 2026, no illnesses had been reported. He also said the concentrate was sold to business partners (wholesale customers), not directly to retail store consumers.
What Is Not Affected
Products served in Brooklyn Roasting Company cafes and the company's canned cold brew products are not included in the recall, according to the company.
Health Risk & Symptoms
Although botulism is uncommon, it can be life-threatening. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists common symptoms as:
- Weak or drooping muscles
- Trouble swallowing
- Double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids
- Slurred speech and difficulty moving the eyes
- Difficulty breathing
The CDC notes that C. botulinum occurs naturally in many environments but can become dangerous under low-oxygen conditions combined with low acidity, low sugar, low salt, certain temperature ranges, and sufficient available water.
What Wholesale Buyers Should Do
The FDA has published full recall details — including product type, distribution area, packaging size, and best-by dates — so wholesale buyers can identify and remove affected stock. Brooklyn Roasting Company has also outlined exactly which items are covered to help partners verify their inventory.
Medical Advice
Anyone who develops symptoms that could indicate botulism should seek medical care immediately. The CDC warns that anyone having trouble breathing should get emergency medical help right away.
For more information: Refer to the FDA recall notice and CDC guidance, or contact Brooklyn Roasting Company directly if you are a wholesale customer and believe you received affected product.
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