The Explosive Problem That Caused A Major Soda Recall For Trader Joe's

When it comes to unique grocery finds, Trader Joe's knows how to keep shelves stocked with cult favorites. But in 2015, one TraderJoe's soda made headlines for a different kind of "pop." The grocery chain was forced to issue a recall for its Triple Ginger Brew soda after unopened bottles began exploding. It wasn't just a handful of incidents; The bottles were bursting across the country, prompting a wave of concern and ultimately, quick action.

Trader Joe's response was quick. Bottles of Triple Ginger Brew sold between November 9 and December 14, 2015, were pulled from store shelves nationwide, and customers were urged to take immediate action. Whether that meant disposing of the bottles safely or transferring the soda to a different container, Trader Joe's prioritized consumer safety above all else.

No injuries or illnesses were reported, and Trader Joe's encouraged customers to contact its customer service line for refunds. This response reinforced why Trader Joe's maintains its loyal following. After all, there are many things you probably didn't know about Trader Joe's products, including that the grocery giant makes changes to products based on customer feedback. However, its ability to navigate unexpected mishaps with efficiency is part of what keeps fans coming back.

Although the soda was perfectly safe to drink,  it was a little too reactive. This isn't the first time a drink behaved unpredictably. It was one of those soda recalls that was just too big to forget like in 2022 when Wisco Pop! was forced to recall its entire product due to exploding cans. While Trader Joe's didn't confirm the exact cause, some believe that natural carbonation and CO₂ buildup may have pushed the bottles past their limit. One theory suggests that improper refrigeration allowed fermentation to accelerate, creating excessive pressure inside the glass.

This phenomenon isn't new. Historically, poorly stored products with active fermentation have turned volatile. That's partly why ketchup bottles used to explode a lot more often. Fortunately, this issue was more of a minor, unexpected kitchen hazard than a devastating industrial explosion. Nevertheless, it was still an unwelcome surprise for anyone on cleanup duty. While the Triple Ginger Brew incident left behind a memorable story — and perhaps a few sticky countertops — it ultimately proved that even a grocery chain's most beloved products can sometimes bubble over into unforeseen mishaps.