A promotional NÜTRL tumbler recalled across the country earlier this month due to a chemical hazard has now been linked to 43 reports of ill health, according to an updated Health Canada notice.
Approximately 33,000 of the 30-ounce stainless steel tumblers were handed out as part of a promotion to any customer who purchased a case of 12 to 15 NÜTRL vodka seltzers at LCBO stores and other licensed retailers between April 29 and May 17.
The white tumblers, which feature the NÜTRL logo, were made in China. Anyone who received a tumbler is being asked to stop using them immediately.
The original May 19 notice said the recall was due to a manufacturing defect that could lead the NÜTRL-branded tumbler to release contaminants.
“If you are experiencing any symptoms, you should seek medical attention,” the notice advises.
The manufacturer, Sunscope, says it received 43 reports from consumers detailing various symptoms as of May 23. The most common symptoms were headache, nausea, cramping and/or abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Health Canada’s updated May 24 recall notice lists the dangers of using the product.
“Some of the tumblers may contain a chemical solution that was trapped between the inner walls of the tumbler, which contains some levels of sulfuric and phosphoric acids,” the recall notice reads. “This solution may release when the tumbler is filled with liquid, posing a potential risk of serious injury.”
The interaction between the solution and the tumbler could also cause elevated levels of iron, chromium, and nickel, the recall notice says.
A number of health issues have been associated with use of the impacted tumblers, including burning of the lips, tongue, throat, stomach, and/or other tissue damage, as well as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Contact with skin can result in blistering, burns, pain, and redness.
