Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Recalled Over Potential Broken Plastic
Vital Proteins recalls nearly 60,000 canisters of Collagen Peptides due to possible plastic contamination from broken lid pieces.
Popular supplement brand Vital Proteins has issued a voluntary recall for nearly 60,000 canisters of its Collagen Peptides powder due to possible contamination from pieces of a broken blue plastic lid. The affected products, primarily 24-ounce plastic canisters, were distributed nationwide, including at Costco warehouses and online retailers. This recall prioritizes consumer safety amid concerns over foreign material that could pose a choking hazard or other health risks.
What You Need to Know About the Recall
The recall was initiated on April 21, 2023, by Vital Proteins, based in Franklin, Illinois, and classified by the FDA as a Class III recall, indicating low risk of adverse health consequences but still warranting action. No illnesses or injuries have been reported to date, but the company is acting out of caution. The contamination stems from fragments of a blue plastic lid potentially mixing into the powder during manufacturing or packaging.
Consumers are advised not to consume the product and to dispose of it or return it for a refund. This incident highlights the importance of vigilance with powdered supplements, which are often consumed daily for joint health, skin elasticity, and overall wellness.
Recalled Product Details
Only specific batches are impacted. Here’s the precise information to check your product:
- Product Name: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
- Size: 24 oz (680g) plastic canister
- UPC Code: 8 57273 00866 6 (or 85273008666)
- Batch Code: 30095993 (or 30095993HA)
- Best By Date: 01-09-2028
- Costco Item #: 1303463 (for Costco purchases)
- Packaging: 6 retail units per wholesale case
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides, 24oz |
| UPC | 857273008666 |
| Batch | 30095993 / 30095993HA |
| Best By | 01-09-2028 |
| Sold At | Costco (April 17-24, 2023), other retailers, online |
No other Vital Proteins products, sizes, or batch codes are affected.
Distribution and Where It Was Sold
The recalled canisters reached consumers through multiple channels:
- Costco Warehouses: Sold between April 17 and April 24, 2023.
- Retail Locations: In 20 states including Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Florida.
- Puerto Rico: Also distributed to retailers there.
- Online: Sold by consignees via e-commerce platforms.
If you purchased Collagen Peptides from Costco or matching retailers during this period, inspect the label immediately.
Health Risks and Why This Matters
Plastic fragments in food supplements can lead to choking, dental injuries, or gastrointestinal issues if ingested. Collagen peptides are hydrolyzed bovine collagen, typically flavorless powder mixed into drinks or food for benefits like improved skin hydration, nail strength, and joint support. Contamination undermines trust in these products, especially since Vital Proteins is endorsed by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, who has publicly praised it as her “go-to” supplement.
While no injuries are reported, foreign material recalls emphasize robust quality control in supplement manufacturing. The FDA monitors such events to prevent broader risks.
What Should Consumers Do?
Follow these steps promptly:
- Check Labels: Verify UPC, batch code, and best-by date against the recalled details.
- Do Not Consume: Discard the product safely to avoid accidental ingestion.
- Return for Refund: Bring to Costco for full refund—no receipt needed in most cases. Other retailers may offer similar policies.
- Contact Support: Costco Customer Advocacy at 313-887-0668 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm CT) or Vital Proteins directly via their website.
- Monitor Health: If you’ve consumed it and experience symptoms like choking or abdominal pain, seek medical advice.
Vital Proteins has not yet listed the recall on its main website, so check FDA or retailer sites for updates.
About Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
Vital Proteins is a leading brand in the collagen supplement market, offering grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen peptides. The unflavored powder dissolves easily in hot or cold liquids, making it versatile for smoothies, coffee, or baking. Marketed for beauty-from-within benefits, it’s popular among fitness enthusiasts and those seeking anti-aging support. This recall affects only a specific production run, preserving the brand’s overall reputation.
Collagen supplements have surged in popularity, with the global market projected to grow due to increasing wellness trends. However, incidents like this underscore the need for third-party testing and transparent sourcing.
Background on Collagen Peptides and Safety
Collagen peptides are short-chain amino acids derived from collagen, the most abundant protein in the body. They support connective tissues, but as dietary supplements, they fall under FDA oversight rather than strict food regulations. Manufacturers must ensure purity, but voluntary recalls like this demonstrate proactive measures.
Similar past recalls in the supplement industry have involved metal fragments or allergens, prompting improved equipment checks. Consumers should always buy from reputable sources and verify batch info.
Expert Tips for Safe Supplement Use
- Choose brands with NSF or USP certification for verified quality.
- Store powders in cool, dry places to prevent degradation.
- Read labels for allergens (bovine-derived, so not vegan).
- Consult doctors before starting, especially with medications.
- Stay informed via FDA recall database: fda.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is this recall still active?
A: Yes, initiated April 21, 2023, and ongoing as per FDA records. Check official sources for status.
Q: Which states were affected?
A: Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Wisconsin, CT, DE, MA, NH, NJ, NY, PA, VT, AL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN, FL, and Puerto Rico.
Q: Can I still buy Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides?
A: Yes, unaffected batches are safe. Avoid the specific batch code listed.
Q: What if I can’t return to Costco?
A: Dispose of it and contact Vital Proteins or Costco support for reimbursement options.
Q: Are there health risks from ingesting plastic?
A: Potential choking or cuts; monitor for symptoms and consult a doctor if needed.
Staying Safe in the Supplement Aisle
Recalls like this are rare but remind us of manufacturing vulnerabilities. Vital Proteins’ quick action protects users, and with millions of units sold annually, the scope is limited. Always prioritize verified products and report issues to the FDA. For alternatives, look for certified collagen from trusted brands.
This event also spotlights Costco’s role in recalls, issuing notices swiftly to members. Wellness routines shouldn’t compromise safety—empower yourself with knowledge.
References
- Collagen Peptides recalled over foreign material contamination — Food Safety News. 2023-06. https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2023/06/collagen-peptides-recalled-over-foreign-material-contamination/
- Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides sold at Costco recalled — CBS News. 2023-04-28. https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/vital-proteins-collagen-peptides-costco-voluntary-recall/
- Jennifer Aniston’s ‘go-to’ collagen supplement recalled — AOL. 2023. https://www.aol.com/jennifer-aniston-collagen-supplement-recalled-171903296.html
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