Product Safety Concerns After Production Mishap
Introduction
In a recent production mishap, certain varieties of High Noon vodka seltzers and Celsius energy drink cans were found to be filled with vodka instead of their intended contents. The mishap, first reported by the BBC, has resulted in warnings being issued for the affected products. The incident has raised concerns about product safety and quality control.
Key Details
The affected products, High Noon vodka seltzers and Celsius energy drink cans, are both popular among consumers. The mistake was discovered during a routine quality check, and it is believed to have happened at the production facility. The warning impacts a limited number of cans and seltzers, but the companies are taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of their customers.
Impact
The production mishap has caused both companies to face negative publicity and potential financial losses. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of quality control measures at the production facility. The incident serves as a reminder for other companies to constantly monitor and review their production processes to avoid similar mishaps in the future. It also highlights the importance of transparency and communication with customers in such situations.
About the Organizations Mentioned
High Noon
High Noon is a leading American hard seltzer brand launched in 2019 by E & J Gallo Winery, a prominent wine and spirits company. Unlike most hard seltzers that use fermented cane sugar or malted barley, High Noon differentiates itself by using **vodka distilled from Midwestern corn** combined with real fruit juice, resulting in a 4.5% ABV ready-to-drink canned cocktail. This innovation has positioned High Noon as the **top-selling spirit brand by volume in the U.S. as of 2023**[1][2]. The brand's initial flavors included grapefruit, pineapple, black cherry, and watermelon, quickly gaining market traction with 600,000 cases sold in its first year, surpassing expectations[1]. High Noon has since expanded its flavor portfolio to include lime, peach, passionfruit, mango, guava, and kiwi, along with the introduction of the High Noon Pool Pack in 2022[1]. In March 2023, High Noon extended its product line by launching a **tequila-based seltzer**, offering lime, grapefruit, passionfruit, and strawberry flavors, capitalizing on the growing popularity of tequila and reinforcing its pioneering role in spirit-based hard seltzers[1][2]. High Noon appeals to consumers seeking low-calorie, sugar-free, and gluten-free alcoholic beverages, with each can containing about 100 calories. Its quality and innovation have driven rapid growth, with sales increasing by 85% in 2022 to 16.4 million cases, capturing approximately 40% of the spirits-based hard seltzer market—a remarkable feat in just its third year[2]. The brand benefits from the legacy and resources of the Gallo family, whose multi-generational stewardship of E & J Gallo Winery has fostered continuous innovation and expansion in the beverage industry[2]. High Noon’s combination of authentic spirits, real fruit juice, an
Celsius
Celsius Holdings, Inc. is a global beverage company best known for its CELSIUS brand, a premium, zero-sugar energy drink designed to support fitness enthusiasts and promote active lifestyles through metabolism-boosting thermogenesis[1][3][4]. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, Celsius has positioned itself as a pioneer in the rapidly growing functional and performance energy drink market with a portfolio that caters to health-conscious consumers[1][3][4]. The company's product lineup includes several formulations tailored for different needs: Celsius Originals for general fitness and weight management; Celsius Heat for high-intensity workouts; Celsius BCAA+Energy combining branched-chain amino acids with energy-boosting ingredients; Celsius On-the-Go in powdered form for convenience; and Celsius Sparkling, a fizzy alternative to traditional sodas[1]. All products emphasize healthier ingredients with no sugar, no artificial colors or flavors, and certifications such as gluten-free, kosher, and non-GMO[7]. A significant milestone in Celsius Holdings’ recent history was the strategic acquisition of Big Beverages Contract Manufacturing in November 2024 for $75 million. This acquisition of a 170,000-square-foot manufacturing and warehouse facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, enhances Celsius's supply chain control, accelerates product innovation, and increases production flexibility—key factors to support its growth and innovation in the energy drink category[2]. The integration of Big Beverages’ experienced team ensures continuity and operational excellence. Celsius promotes a "LIVE FIT" lifestyle ethos, inspiring a global community of active individuals dedicated to pushing personal limits and maintaining fitness as a mindset and lifestyle[4][7]. The brand emphasizes clean, functional energy sourced from natural ingredients like green tea, guarana, and ginger, distinguishing it from traditional energy drinks with high sugar and artificial additives. As of 2025, Celsius Holdings is publicly traded on Nasdaq (ticker: CELH) with a market cap around
