URGENT RECALL: Coffee Pods Sold at Costco and Walmart May Be Contaminated
If you recently purchased single-serve coffee pods from major retailers like Costco or Walmart, you may want to check your pantry—a popular brand has issued a nationwide recall due to potential ink contamination.
What’s Being Recalled?
The affected product is the:
New Mexico Piñon Coffee Dark Pinon Single-Serve Cups (10-count box)
- Lot Code: 251749
- UPC: 812361033081
- Best-By Date: May 8, 2026
These pods are designed for use in Keurig-style single-serve brewers and were sold nationwide at Costco, Walmart, Kroger, Target and other retailers.
The problem stems from a manufacturing mishap during production of the coffee pod lids. The clear protective coating on the lids was not properly applied in some units. This caused the food-grade ink used in the label to become exposed.
Here’s where it gets concerning: when you brew the coffee pod using high temperature and pressure (like in a Keurig), that ink could potentially leach into the coffee. No one wants ink in their morning brew.
While the ink itself is technically food-safe, it’s not meant to be part of your drink, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has flagged it as a Class III recall, which means there is minimal health risk but a potential for quality control failure.
Any Illnesses Reported?
Thankfully, no illnesses, injuries, or adverse reactions have been reported so far. However, New Mexico Piñon Coffee is taking action out of an abundance of caution.
Where Was It Sold?
These recalled pods were distributed across the U.S. in stores and online, including:
- Costco
- Walmart
- Target
- Kroger
- And independent grocery stores and online retailers
What Should You Do?
Here’s how to check if you’re affected:
- Check the Lot Code: Look for “251749” on the side of the box or the pod packaging.
- Check the UPC: If the UPC is 812361033081, you have the recalled product.
- Check the Best-By Date: May 8, 2026 = recalled.
- Stop using the pods immediately.
- Return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund or dispose of it safely. Who to Contact
Who Should You Contact?
If you have any questions, you can reach out directly to:
New Mexico Piñon Coffee Company
Phone: (505) 298-1964
Website: nmpinoncoffee.com
Safe Alternatives to Consider
Looking for a pod you can trust while this blows over? Consider switching to other trusted single-serve brands that have not been affected by the recall, such as:
- Peet’s Coffee
- Dunkin’
- The Original Donut Shop
- Starbucks K-Cups
These brands are widely available and continue to meet all safety standards.
This recall may be classified as low risk, but it’s still worth taking seriously. You expect your morning coffee to wake you up, not worry you. If you have any of the affected coffee pods sitting in your kitchen right now, don’t take a chance. Return them for a refund and brew something safe instead.
Your health (and your coffee game) deserve better.
Stay safe, stay caffeinated — and double-check your box.