The FDA has issued a recall for Red Shell Foods’ Teriyaki Sauce after discovering signs of mold growth and swelling containers—a clear warning that something dangerous could be lurking inside your condiment bottle.
Nearly 1,000 bottles are affected, most of which were distributed in California. Consumers are urged to check their pantries immediately and discard any affected bottles. The FDA has not confirmed any illnesses yet, but the risk of contamination is serious.
The problem? Microbial growth—likely mold, yeast, or bacteria—can occur when food packaging is compromised, such as from a faulty seal. These microorganisms release gases that cause bottles to bubble, foam, or swell—all red flags for spoilage. The Teriyaki Sauce in question may also show other warning signs like off smells, odd colors, or slimy textures.
Mold exposure can be especially harmful to those with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems, causing everything from mild reactions to respiratory infections.
The recalled Teriyaki Sauce comes in 12 oz bottles, sold in three-packs ($25) or six-packs ($40). Ingredients include soy sauce, water, sugar, cooking wine, modified food starch, and various dried spices.
This comes on the heels of another FDA recall involving Texas Pete’s Habanero Buffalo Sauce, which was accidentally bottled with Sriracha and contained undeclared sulfites—a potential life-threatening allergen for sensitive individuals.
In both cases, no illnesses or deaths have been reported so far, but the FDA is urging customers to return affected products for a full refund or dispose of them immediately.
If you have Red Shell Teriyaki or Texas Pete hot sauces at home, don’t take the risk. Check the label, and toss it if it matches the recall.
