Angry Orchard Recalls Hard Cider Over Risk Of Re-Fermentation In Bottles

DETROIT (WWJ) - Drink your next beer with caution -- the Angry Orchard Cider Company is recalling select cases of its hard cider.

The recall covers 12-packs and 6-packs of Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Hard Cider sold in Michigan and 21 other states.

The Cincinnati-based company ordered the recall after consumers complained about broken bottles or bottles overflowing when opened. After conducting follow-up quality testing, the company determined that the affected cider is limited to two batches, produced on June 15 and June 29, 2015.

The company said the cider from these production runs appears to be showing signs of re-fermentation in the bottle, which could result in increased carbonation levels, and in some instances, bottles may overflow when opened or burst under increased pressure.

Although the impacted cider poses no health risk if consumed, the company issued the recall to ensure that products available to consumers meet their high quality standards.

To determine whether a bottle of Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Hard Cider has been impacted:

• For a case or 12-pack -- Look for the "Freshness Matters" code printed on the top or side panel of the packaging. If that code begins with "June 2016 1665C" and is immediately followed by 4 digits between the range of 0001 through 0700; or "June 2016 1805C" and is immediately followed by 4 digits between 0001 through 0545, those bottles may have been impacted.

• For an individual bottle (use extreme care) -- Locate the inkjet code printed directly on the glass, on the "shoulder" of the bottle just below the neck label. If that code falls within the ranges of C16650001 through C16650530, or C18050001 through C18050415, that bottle may have been impacted.

If a bottle of the Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Hard Cider falls within the designated code ranges, consumers should handle with extreme care and dispose of the product immediately in an outside container. The Company will issue a full refund on the products described above.

To date, no illnesses or injuries have been reported. For more information, visit angryorchard.com or call 1-800-362-7110.