Key Points:
- High Noon recalls mislabeled cans containing vodka seltzer sold as Celsius energy drink.
- The mix-up risks accidental alcohol consumption and triggers nationwide safety alerts.
- FDA and brands respond swiftly, highlighting supply chain vulnerabilities in beverage labeling.
In a rare and alarming manufacturing error, High Noon, the well-known vodka seltzer brand from E. & J. Gallo Winery, has issued a voluntary recall after discovering that cans labeled as Celsius Astro Vibe Sparkling Blue Razz energy drink were actually filled with vodka seltzer. The recall, announced on July 30, 2025, affects select Beach Variety 12-packs of High Noon distributed to eight U.S. states, including Florida, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the mislabeled cans may have serious consequences if consumed unknowingly especially for minors, pregnant individuals, or anyone avoiding alcohol for medical, legal, or religious reasons. Although no illnesses or injuries have been reported, the risk of accidental alcohol consumption has prompted immediate action from the brand and retailers nationwide.
Affected products can be identified by silver can tops and specific lot codes:
- L CCB 02JL25 2:55 through 3:11 for the mislabeled Celsius cans.
- L CCC 17JL25 14:00 to 23:59 and L CCC 18JL25 00:00 to 03:00 for the High Noon packs.
How Did the Celsius Astro Vibe Mix-Up Happen, and What Should Consumers Know?
The issue reportedly stems from a supplier error where empty Celsius-branded cans were mistakenly shipped to High Noon’s production line and filled with vodka seltzer. These cans were then unknowingly packaged into High Noon Beach Variety 12-packs, leading to the cross-brand mislabeling incident.
High Noon is now working closely with the FDA and distribution partners to remove the affected products from shelves and guide consumers through the recall process. Anyone who purchased a Celsius Astro Vibe Sparkling Blue Razz can particularly from a High Noon Beach Pack is urged to inspect the can top and check the lot code.
Consumers who find affected products are advised not to consume them and instead dispose of them safely. Refunds or further guidance can be obtained by contacting consumerrelations@highnoonvodka.com.
Retailers have also been instructed to pull affected inventory and assist customers with returns or replacements. The recall is seen as a proactive step in protecting public health and maintaining trust with customers.
Why This Matters: Lessons in Beverage Safety?
This recall exposes vulnerabilities in the beverage supply chain, especially when brands with vastly different product profiles like a non-alcoholic energy drink and an alcoholic seltzer share suppliers or co-packing facilities. Experts note the potential for serious consequences, particularly if such an error had gone unnoticed for longer.
It’s also a cautionary tale for consumers: visual packaging can be deceiving. With Celsius typically consumed by students, athletes, and working professionals, the accidental presence of alcohol in lookalike cans raises public safety and ethical concerns.
Despite the mistake, both High Noon and Celsius Astro Vibe Holdings have responded transparently and swiftly. There’s currently no indication that other batches or products are affected. The FDA has commended the voluntary recall and urged continued vigilance across the industry.
As beverage brands expand rapidly across categories, quality control, supply chain checks, and label integrity remain paramount. For now, consumers are advised to double-check what’s in their can especially when it claims to boost energy but might secretly offer a buzz.
Read Also: Calories in Alcohol: What You Should Know About Your Favorite Drinks?
