Brooklyn Roasting Company Issues Recall for Over 3,000 Gallons of Cold Brew Coffee in NY & NJ for Botulism Risk – CoffeeTalk

On Wednesday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revealed that Brooklyn Roasting Company, a long-standing coffee roaster in Brooklyn, is recalling over 3,000 gallons of cold brew in New York and New Jersey. The company, which markets itself as New York’s top homegrown coffee roasting establishment, has withdrawn 1,219 units of its Pasteurized Cold Brew Concentrate, which amounts to approximately 3,047.5 gallons, due to a potential health risk associated with Clostridium botulinum toxin formation. This recall follows an FDA report dated July 21, 2026, indicating that the product, packaged as “bag in a box,” was distributed between April 1 and June 20, with “best by” codes ranging from “063026 to 093026.”

The FDA has specified that ambient storage conditions may lead to the unfortunate proliferation of this toxin, presenting a risk of botulism, a serious ailment caused by bacteria thriving in low-oxygen environments. Though it remains uncertain whether the temperature issues resulting in the recall were due to the extreme summer heat or other factors, the potential for botulinum toxin formation in cold brew highlights significant food safety concerns. As detailed by the Mayo Clinic, foodborne botulism occurs when harmful bacteria produce a toxin in oxygen-depleted settings, emphasizing the need for caution with stored beverages.

Brooklyn Roasting Company has taken steps to inform both accounts and the public of the recall through direct outreach. They offer a range of products, including shipping outside New York and a subscription program. In light of this recall, it may be prudent for consumers to consider maintaining optimal temperatures for their cold brew, whether purchasing from Brooklyn Roasting Company or other brands, or even when brewing at home. The issue of C. botulinum proliferation is underscored by a U.S. patent application from 2024, which outlines how this microbe thrives in sealed, oxygen-low conditions. Concerns are heightened by the observation that the acidity of some coffee may not sufficiently inhibit toxin formation—the application of heat remains essential for elimination. Ultimately, whether enjoying iced coffee or cold brew, proper handling and storage are critical for safety.

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