It's reported they were carried at a recognizable grocery chain. Here are identifying product details.
You buy bottled water because you believe it’s purer than what’s coming from the tap. Clean, clear, and contamination-free, trusting that it’s sourced, processed, and bottled safely. While uncertainties about microplastics and PFAS are a growing reality, a new FDA report suggests customers of one well-known grocery chain may have even seen—or, tasted—a possible contaminant.
According to a report sent January 9 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Meijer Distribution, Inc.—supplier for Meijer supermarkets—has issued a voluntary recall of a bottled water product after discovering potential contamination that could pose a safety concern for consumers. The report implies more than 38,000 jugs across six states in the South and Midwest: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
According to recall details, the issue involves a “floating black foreign substance” found in the water sold under the Michigan-headquartered grocer’s name. While the FDA has not identified the substance or assigned a formal classification to the recall, the presence of foreign material in a consumable product raises concerns about potential health risks, particularly if ingested.
The recall, which the FDA reveals was first announced on November 13, 2025, remains ongoing and affects Meijer Steam Distilled Water, sold in 128–fluid-ounce (1-gallon) plastic jugs with red caps. Consumers can identify the recalled product by checking the label and packaging. The recalled water is marked with UPC 041250841197, has a sell-by date of October 4, 2026, and includes Lot Code 39-222 #3. Additional identifying information includes Product ID (PID) 472859 and Meijer Item Code (MIC) 477910.
While no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall, experts generally advise against consuming products with visible foreign material, as contamination can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal symptoms or other health issues. Customers can return the product to their local Meijer store for a refund or contact the company directly for additional guidance.
Meijer was founded in 1934 and has more than 500 locations across those same six states, according to its site.
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