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FDA Recalls Teas Over Unsafe Ashwagandha Additive
19 Sep
Summary
- Three loose-leaf tea varieties recalled by the FDA.
- Ashwagandha root cited as an 'unsafe food additive'.
- Teas distributed nationwide, originating from Oregon.

On September 16, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a Class III recall affecting three types of loose-leaf tea produced by Wild Coast Brew LLC. The affected products include The Shadow - Winter Spice Black Tea, The Creator - Ginger Lemongrass Tisane, and The Lover - Tart Chocolaty Tisane. The recall was initiated by the company on June 5, 2026.
The primary reason for the recall is the inclusion of ashwagandha root in the teas. The FDA has classified ashwagandha as an 'unsafe food additive' because it has not been approved as a food additive or generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in conventional foods. This differs from its common use in dietary supplements, which have separate regulatory pathways.
The recalled teas were distributed nationwide. While the specific retail locations are not detailed, Wild Coast Brew's website indicates primary distribution in Oregon, with additional presence in California, Idaho, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Washington. Consumers are advised to identify the specific UPC and lot codes for the affected products.