Harmony Chai of Eastsound, WA is voluntarily recalling its Concentrated Black Spiced Chai and Decaffeinated Rooibos Chai because it may not be properly processed. Although Harmony Chai has received no complaints of illness related to the consumption of the recalled product, there is a potential hazard that can occur when tea beverages are inadequately processed. These batches have the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium Botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled. Illness due to foodborne botulism is extremely rare. According to Washington State Department of Health, during the last 10 years, Communicable Disease Epidemiology (CDE) has received 0–2 reports of foodborne botulism each year.
Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention. For more information on Clostridium Botulinum or other foodborne illnesses please contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Food Information Line at 1-888-SAFEFOOD (toll free), 10 AM to 4 PM ET, Monday through Friday or visit http://www.fda.gov/Food/default.htm
All lots of the following products have been recalled:
• Concentrated Black Spiced Chai bottled in 22 oz (650ml) amber glass UPC 0510501311 and 64 oz (1892.7ml) amber glass jugs UPC 0510501301
• Decaffeinated Roobios Chai bottled in 22 oz (624.25 ml) amber glass UPC 9450402431 and 64 oz (1892.7ml) amber glass jugs UPC 0510501301
Concentrated Black Spiced Chai and Decaffeinated Rooibos Chai were distributed through farmers markets, grocery stores and cafes in Western Washington. Areas of distribution include the San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish and King Counties.
It was discovered through WSDA testing of routine samples that the tea was not properly processed. Harmony Chai and the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) are working together to determine the cause of this problem. Harmony Chai has not had any reported illnesses to date but consumers who have purchased Harmony Chai Concentrated Black Spiced
Chai or Decaffeinated Roobios Chai recently are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at the following address:
Harmony Chai
P.O. Box 792
Attn: Recall Division
Eastsound, WA 98245
