Dr. Pepper is one of the most popular sodas in the country, in fact, a study conducted in 2024 claims that it has become the no. 2 soda, just under Coca-Cola Classic but above Sprite. So the fact a massive recall has been issued on over 19,000 cases of the drink is shocking for the countless people who love drinking it.
Thankfully, the issue in question isn't something immediately life-threatening like salmonella contamination. The recall was issued on Dr. Pepper Zero Sugar because some cans contain the full sugar product instead. According to People Magazine, it was a voluntary recall that was first initiated on May 23.
The recall specifically affects the 12-pack and 24-pack cases of the 12-ounce cans labeled Dr. Pepper Zero Sugar. Even though the label says zero sugar, some of the cans actually contain about 39 grams, which is the average amount for normal Dr. Pepper. While it might not make you sick, it's still dangerous to people with diabetes or under sugar restrictions.
As of Thursday, June 5, the FDA has labeled this recall as a Class II, meaning it could cause "temporary or medical reversible adverse health consequences." In short, it's bad but the odds of something serious happening are low.
As for which locations are in jeopardy, the affected cases were only distributed in Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida after being produced in Jacksonville, Florida by Pepsi Beverages Company.
"Consumers can identify the recalled cases by the product code, which is listed as XXXXRS05165, and the 'best by' date of Feb. 16, 2026."
Right now, that is the only specific case and brand of Dr. Pepper that is part of the recall, meaning if you've bought any other kind of Dr. Pepper lately then you're in the clear. Recalls of this size are a solid reminder that it's important to stay informed on food safety to minimize any potential chance of risk.
If you happen to have bought an affected case, you should be able to return it to the store for a refund or pass it off to someone who doesn't mind drinking a full-sugar can of Dr. Pepper.
There have been many food recalls lately with one of the latest actually being related to salmonella contamination. On June 6, the FDA announced that August Egg Company brown cage-free eggs and certified organic eggs recalled more than 1.7 million of their product due to the contamination risk.