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By Anna Skinner
Associate News Editor
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Nearly 40,000 gallons of water sold in six states were recalled after a "floating black foreign substance" was discovered in the product.
A recent recall of over 38,000 gallons of Meijer Steam Distilled Water in six Midwest states has prompted warnings from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as officials investigate reports of a mysterious black substance found floating in gallon-sized jugs.
While bottled water is commonly regarded as a safe option for drinking and sensitive uses, such as medical devices and infant care, this recall is notable because it may compromise the water's purity. The water was distributed to Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin.
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Newsweek reached out to Meijer via email for comment.
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Meijer voluntarily initiated a recall of 38,043 gallons of its steam distilled water in November 2025, according to a report from the FDA. The recall specifically affects one-gallon plastic containers bearing red caps, with the following identifiers: best-by date of October 4, 2026; lot code 39-222 #3; UPC code 041250841197; Product ID 472859; and Item Code 477910.
The recall covers distilled water distributed to Meijer stores across six states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Consumers in these areas are advised to check any purchased distilled water for these identifiers.
The FDA has not yet assigned a recall class that would officially indicate the health risk level, and continues to investigate the contamination. As of now, no illnesses or injuries connected to this recall have been reported. Shoppers are instructed not to use the affected water—even if no visible contamination is present.
Distilled water serves critical roles. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), distilled water may be used for sinus rinses to prevent dangerous infections. Distilled water is also recommended for CPAP machines, humidifiers, and medical devices because it lacks minerals and contaminants that can cause equipment or health issues, highlighting why the presence of a foreign substance is especially concerning in this product category.
The FDA states that its review and investigation into the contamination of Meijer Steam Distilled Water remains ongoing. As of January 15, the agency had not identified the source or chemical nature of the black substance found in the jugs. Officials have not determined if health risks are present, but stress that consumers not use or consume water from affected containers. The recall remains unclassified, leaving uncertainty about potential consequences.
Meijer customers in the affected areas who believe they purchased the product are encouraged to contact their local Meijer store for guidance on refunds or replacements. The FDA advises the public to review any distilled water in their possession and to follow all recall guidance.
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