Johnson & Johnson recalls Benecol yogurt drinks over yeast fermentation concerns

The company, which markets Benecol brand yogurt drinks in the UK and Ireland under licence from Finland-based Rasio, initiated the recall after a number of customers complained of “fizziness”​ and “bottles popping open.”​

The recall relates to consumer packs containing six 67.5g bottles of Benecol Peach & Apricot Yogurt Drinks.

Three batches of the product – totalling 63,600 consumer packs – will be recalled at retailer level in response to the complaints, Johnson & Johnson Ltd confirmed.

In a statement sent to DairyReporter.com earlier today, Johnson & Johnson Ltd attributed the issue to “yeast fermentation.”​

“This action has been taken following a number of consumer complaints of fizziness and/or reports of bottles popping open,” ​said the statement. “The suspected case is yeast fermentation, and initial laboratory analysis confirms this.”​

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) issued recall notices relating to the product withdrawal yesterday.

In an alert published on its website, the FSAI warned consumers that “some bottles may be bulging”​ and that the product may appear or taste “fizzy.”​

The FSA has meanwhile advised consumers not to drink Benecol Peach & Apricot Yogurt Drinks from the batches in question.

Despite this advice, Johnson & Johnson has played down concerns about the safety of the products.

“The current analysis confirms that the potential for any serious health consequences is remote,” ​the company’s statement continued.

“Consumers with any medical concerns or questions are advised to contact their doctor,” ​it added.