A Canadian brand of frozen smoothie starter cubes is recalling one of its products after consumer reports concerning possible cyanide poisoning risks.
Evive Nutrition Inc. is recalling Evive brand Immunity Super Functional Smoothie from the marketplace due to the presence of raw elderberries, which contain cyanogenic glycosides, a natural toxin.
"This is a new ingredient that was included in this smoothie only, so please rest assured that no other Evive product is affected," indicates Evive on its website.
"Elderberry is a superfood that is used in commercial food and beverages of all sorts and which use is permitted by food agencies," continues the company. "However, consuming raw elderberries may sometimes result in side effects that we had not foreseen, and for this reason, we have decided to voluntarily recall this flavour until further notice. Your health is, and will always be, our number one priority."
The recalled product has been sold online, notes the Canadian Food Inspection Agency in the recall notice.
The product being recalled was sold in 150g packages with the following codes and best by dates:
- H202131213 / 2023 MA 06
- H202132113 / 2023 MA 18
- H202134213 / 2023 JN 08
The CFIA says the Evive Immunity smoothie cube recall was "triggered by consumer complaints," adding that "there have been reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product."
"Raw elderberries naturally contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide after being eaten. The human body can eliminate small amounts of cyanide, but larger amounts can result in cyanide poisoning, which could lead to death," describes the CFIA.
"Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include weakness and confusion, anxiety, restlessness, headache, nausea, difficulty breathing and shortness of breath, loss of consciousness, seizures and cardiac arrest."
What you should do
- If you think you became sick from consuming a recalled product, call your doctor
- Check to see if you have the recalled product in your home
- Do not consume the recalled product
- Recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the location where they were purchased
