Fiji Water Recall Impacts 1.9M Bottles with High Levels of Bacteria and Manganese

High manganese exposure has been linked to brain development problems, nervous system issues, loss of sex drive and lower sperm counts.

Nearly 2 million bottles of Fiji water have been recalled, following confirmation that some may be contaminated with dangerous bacteria and high levels of manganese, which may cause serious and permanent health problems.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the Fiji Water recall on May 23, after the manufacturer, Natural Waters of Viti, Ltd, originally pulled the bottles from store shelves on March 4.

Fiji issued the recall after internal testing indicated the bottles contained excessive amounts of manganese, a naturally occurring mineral found in the soil, water, and air. The mineral is an essential nutrient for humans, but high exposure can cause memory problems and issues with attention and motor skills.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates people who drink water with high levels of manganese for a long period of time can experience problems with brain development, issues with the nervous system, loss of sex drive, and sperm damage in men.

Fiji did not indicate the level or type of bacteria found, but typically, low levels of bacteria are not harmful to humans. However high levels can be toxic.

The FDA classified the recall as a class III, the lowest recall classification because the recalled bottles of water have a very low likelihood of causing side effects or health consequences. So far, no injuries have been reported in connection with the recall.

The recall involves 79,000 cases of Fiji water, or more than 1.9 million bottles, which were sold exclusively online at Amazon.com from February 1 to March 3, 2024. Fiji indicated they have recovered nearly 99% of the affected bottles. The remaining bottles are being held in warehouses and are no longer available for purchase, according to the recall notice.

The contaminated water was sold in 24 pack cases of 500 ml bottles, which have a UPC of 6 32565 00004 3, and the bottles have a UPC of 6 32565 00001 2, with dates of Nov. 11, 2023, Nov. 12, 2023, Nov. 13, 2023, Nov. 24, 2023, and Nov. 25, 2023.

The manufacturer indicates it has informed customers who received the bottles of the recall. Consumers who have any of the recalled water at home should not drink the water and return it to where it was purchased for a full refund. Consumers can also contact Fiji with questions at 866-406-4149.