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NEED TO KNOW
38,043 gallons of Meijer Steam Distilled Water have been recalled
The enforcement reports cite "floating black foreign substance" contamination for the recall
The company has yet to issue a statement confirming the nature of the foreign substance
More than 38,000 gallons of bottled water have been recalled after an Enforcement Report from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revealed a "floating black foreign substance" appearing inside gallon-sized jugs.
According to a notice published by the FDA, the recall involves Meijer Steam Distilled Water, which is sold in one-gallon plastic containers with red caps. Meijer voluntarily initiated the recall in November 2025, and it remains ongoing as officials continue to review the issue. In total, 38,043 gallons of the product are affected.
The affected jugs can be identified by a best-by date of Oct. 4, 2026, along with lot code 39-222 #3 and a UPC code of 041250841197. Meijer item codes tied to the recall include Product ID 472859 and Item Code 477910.
The recalled water was distributed to Meijer stores across Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin. Consumers who purchased distilled water in those states are urged to check their containers carefully.
According to the FDA notice, the issue stems from the presence of a black substance floating inside the water, though the exact source and composition of the material have not been publicly identified. The agency has not yet assigned a recall classification, which typically indicates how serious a potential health risk may be.
Meijer did not initially respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.
Distilled water is often used for more than just drinking. Many consumers rely on it for medical devices, such as CPAP machines, according toVerywell Health, as well as for infant formula preparation and sinus rinses, where water purity is especially important. Because of that, officials say consumers should stop using the recalled water immediately, even if no health issues are apparent.
At this time, no illnesses or injuries have been reported in connection with the recalled product. Still, the FDA advises anyone who has the affected water to either dispose of it safely or return it to a Meijer store for a refund or replacement.
The FDA continues to monitor the recall and has not provided additional details about how the contamination occurred. Consumers are encouraged to review any distilled water they have on hand and follow recall guidance to avoid potential exposure.
Read the original article onPeople
