Fiji water recalled after testing finds manganese and bacteria

Natural Waters of Viti Limited is recalling Fiji Natural Artesian Water 500ml (24-pack) because robust testing revealed manganese in addition to three bacterial genera.

According to details published online by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the recall was initiated on March 4, 2024 and is still ongoing.

The recalled products were distributed directly to U.S. consumers in Washington and nationwide online.

Recalled products:

Fiji natural artesian water 500 ml (24 pieces) box

• UPC code: 6 32565 00004 3
• Bottle UPC code: 6 32565 00001 2
• Product quantity: 78,533 boxes
• Code information: November 11, 2023, November 12, 2023, November 13, 2023, November 24, 2023, November 25, 2023

Consumers should not use this product. Recalled products should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase.

The FDA has determined that the manganese concentration in bottled drinking water should not exceed 0.05 mg/L.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common health problems in people exposed to high levels of manganese involve the nervous system. These health effects include behavioral changes and other effects on the nervous system, including movements that can become slow and clumsy. This combination of symptoms, when sufficiently severe, is called ‘manganism’.

More about manganese and related health problems can be found here.

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