The Republic of Tea is recalling its Organic Turmeric Ginger Green Tea in response to a possible health risk. The Novato, CA-based company stated April 29, 2016, that it was notified by a supplier of the possibility that one lot of its organic ginger ingredient may be contaminated with Salmonella bacteria. There have been no illnesses reported in connection with this voluntary recall, and no other company teas are impacted by this recall, the statement noted. The organic ginger supplier reported this finding from another customer, the tea company stated. The Republic of Tea and the organic ginger supplier have conducted their own investigations and have tested numerous samples of organic ginger by accredited independent third-party laboratories and confirmed the absence of Salmonella. Despite the fact it was confirmed that there was no Salmonella in the organic ginger that was tested, The Republic of Tea is recalling the following Organic Turmeric Ginger Green Tea:
- Organic Turmeric Ginger Green Tea – 50 CT Tin
- UPC: 7-42676-40355-5 – Best Sipped by March 23, 2018
- Organic Turmeric Ginger – 250 CT Bulk Bag
- UPC: 7-42676-30655-9 – Best Sipped by March 23, 2018
- Organic Turmeric Ginger – 250 CT Bulk Bag
- UPC: 7-42676-30655-9 – Best Sipped by April 13, 2018
- Organic Turmeric Ginger – 50 CT Refill Bag
- UPC: 7-42676-42155-9 – Best Sipped by March 23, 2018
Customers may return the recalled Organic Turmeric Ginger Green Tea to The Republic of Tea for a replacement tea, or for a full refund. Todd B. Rubin, company president, said this recall was a first for The Republic of Tea. The company’s website description of the product does not mention the recall but states that the tea “is temporarily unavailable and will be back in stock on May 20, 2016.” For questions and concerns, email teasafety@republicoftea.com or call 1-800-298-4832, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CDT. Salmonella bacteria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
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