Why Urban Remedy Is Recalling Its Strawberry Hibiscus Rose Tea Tonic
Many people seeking a healthier lifestyle often turn to the powers of tea. It's just one of the many reasons that tea is the most popular beverage in the world besides water (via Tea Association U.S.A.). Tea is a flavorful alternative to sugary sodas or flavored drinks and it has no calories while boasting numerous health benefits. Tea Association U.S.A. touts that tea has natural antioxidant properties, and may benefit heart health, weight loss, and diabetes management among other great things.
Of course, not all teas are brewed alike, and it's important to approach tea with care if seeking health benefits (via EatingWell). Many ready-made teas might also contain the sugars that some are trying to avoid. Those who prefer Urban Remedy's Strawberry Hibiscus Rose Tea Tonic to get their health fix may also need to proceed with caution. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) a batch of the refreshing health beverage was just recalled due to concerns of a possible hepatitis A contamination.
Outbreak caused by the use of infected strawberries
The FDA published a company announcement from Urban Remedy on June 5 concerning the recall. The statement notes that the product is being recalled because it may contain strawberries linked to a previously announced strawberry hepatitis recall (via FDA).
The strawberry hibiscus rose tea tonic is sold in 23 states across the United States. The possibly contaminated batch was sold between May 17 and May 29. It's labeled with lot number 1232 and is marked as best by July 17, 2022. Any possibly contaminated teas should be immediately disposed of. Urban Remedy is sold at over 100 locations throughout the United States at Whole Foods Market kiosks and dedicated California storefronts as well.
The Hepatitis A outbreak has been linked to organic fresh strawberries marketed by FreshKampo and HEB brands that were purchased between March 5, 2022, and April 25, 2022. NPR reports that 17 illnesses were being investigated in relation to the outbreak. Fifteen of those cases were in California while there was one in North Dakota and another in Minnesota. There were also 10 cases being investigated in Canada.
According to Mayo Clinic, Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver disease. Symptoms are varied but can be effectively managed if medical care is sought within two weeks. Healthline reports infected berries and fruits were most likely contaminated by a water source used to hydrate the plants or wash the fruit.