Camilla Jessen
Check your pantry.
If you’ve stocked up on single-serve coffee, it’s time to double-check your pantry.
A new FDA alert flags contamination concerns in a widely sold brand.
Ink Contamination in Coffee Pods
Coffee lovers across the U.S. are being urged to check their single-serve coffee pod supply after a nationwide recall was issued due to possible ink contamination.
The recall involves New Mexico Piñon Coffee Dark Piñon pods, sold in 10-count boxes.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), certain pods may allow food-safe ink to seep into the coffee during brewing, posing an unexpected risk.
What to Look For
Here’s how to identify if your coffee is affected:
- Product: New Mexico Piñon Coffee Dark Piñon single-serve cups
- UPC: 812361033081
- Lot Code: 251749
- Best By Date: 05/08/2026
What to Do
If your coffee matches this description, the FDA advises disposing of the pods immediately or returning them to the store for a refund.
What Caused the Contamination?
The issue stems from a manufacturing oversight where the protective clear coat seal on the pod lids wasn’t consistently applied.
Without the seal, the food-safe ink used for labeling can run when exposed to the high heat and pressure of a Keurig or similar machine.
Although the ink itself is not highly toxic, the FDA explains that under these conditions, there is a risk of contamination in the brewed coffee.
Class III Recall
This recall is officially classified as Class III, meaning the product is “not likely to cause adverse health consequences.”
That said, the FDA still recommends caution, particularly for those who may be sensitive to chemical exposure.
No Illnesses Reported
At this time, no illnesses or injuries have been reported in connection with the affected coffee pods.
However, anyone experiencing symptoms after consuming the product should contact a healthcare professional.
New Mexico Piñon Coffee, a regional favorite that has grown in popularity nationwide, has not issued a public comment yet.
