Meijer Steam Distilled Water Recall, Floating Black Contamination and Your Legal Options 2026
Meijer has recalled over 38,000 gallons of its steam distilled bottled water due to reports of a mysterious “floating black foreign substance” found inside sealed containers as of January 2026. While the retailer voluntarily initiated the action in late 2025, the FDA recently updated the alert to a Class II recall, signaling a potential for temporary or medically reversible health consequences. This guide details which product lots are affected, the health risks of using contaminated distilled water in medical devices, and your rights regarding compensation or legal claims.
The Meijer Distilled Water Contamination: What Was Found?
The recall centers on 1-gallon plastic jugs of Meijer Steam Distilled Water that contain unidentified black particles. According to an FDA enforcement report published in January 2026, the contamination consists of a “floating black foreign substance” visible to the naked eye. While routine quality checks and consumer reports flagged the issue, neither Meijer nor the FDA has publicly identified the exact chemical or biological makeup of the substance.
The contamination was first discovered in November 2025, but the recall remains ongoing and active through January 2026 because the product is shelf-stable and may still be in consumer pantries or medical setups.
Which Specific Meijer Water Products Are Affected?
The recall is targeted at specific batches distributed across six Midwestern states: Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. To determine if your water is part of the 38,043 gallons affected, check the jug for the following identifiers:
- Product Name: Meijer Steam Distilled Water (1 Gallon / 128 FL OZ)
- UPC Code: 041250841197
- Lot Code: 39-222 #3
- Best-By Date: October 4, 2026
- Packaging: Plastic jugs with red lids (sold individually or in 4-pack cases)
Health Risks: Why “Class II” Matters for Medical Users
On January 20, 2026, the FDA assigned this a Class II recall status. In legal and regulatory terms, this means exposure to the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects. While no illnesses have been confirmed as of late January 2026, the risk is highest for those using the water for more than just drinking:
- CPAP and Medical Devices: Distilled water is required for CPAP machines and nebulizers. Introducing unidentified black particles into these machines could lead to the inhalation of contaminants or mechanical failure.
- Infant Formula: Parents often use distilled water to avoid mineral buildup in formula; any foreign substance poses a heightened risk to developing immune systems.
- Sinus Rinses: Using contaminated water in Neti pots can introduce pathogens or irritants directly into the sinus cavities.
Is There a Meijer Water Recall Lawsuit or Settlement?
As of January 2026, there is no official class action settlement or established compensation fund for the Meijer water recall. However, legal experts and consumer advocacy groups like Top Class Actions are monitoring the situation closely.
If you have suffered a documented illness or if your medical equipment was damaged by the contaminated water, you may have grounds for an individual product liability claim. Typically, in cases where a “foreign substance” is found, compensation may cover medical expenses, the cost of replacing damaged medical devices, and the refund value of the product. If widespread injuries are reported, a class action lawsuit could be filed later in 2026 to address consumer fraud or negligence.
What You Must Know
How to Identify Affected Products Immediately
Don’t just look for the black spots. Because the substance may be microscopic or settled at the bottom, you must verify the Lot Code 39-222 #3 located near the shoulder or neck of the bottle. Even if the water looks clear, if the codes match, the FDA advises that the product is unsafe for use.
Common Misconceptions About the Recall
A common mistake is assuming this recall affects all Meijer bottled water. Currently, only the Steam Distilled variety with the red cap is included. Meijer’s Spring Water and Purified Drinking Water are not part of this specific enforcement action as of January 2026. Another misconception is that boiling the water makes it safe; boiling will not remove “foreign black substances” or potential chemical leachates.
Recent 2026 Updates on the Investigation
The most significant update in January 2026 is the FDA’s formal classification of the risk. While Meijer has implemented “enhanced filtration and supplier audits” according to recent reports, the investigation into how the black material entered the “closed-loop” distillation process continues.
What to Do Next
Step 1: Secure the Evidence
If you find the black substance in your water, do not throw the bottle away immediately. * Take clear photos and video of the floating particles and the Lot Code.
- Keep your receipt if possible, or take a photo of your mPerks digital transaction history.
- If you used the water in a medical device, document any unusual film or residue left behind.
Step 2: Contact Meijer for a Refund
Meijer is currently offering full refunds or replacements at any of their store locations. You can visit the Customer Service desk at any Meijer in the Midwest to return the jug. For additional information, you can contact Meijer’s corporate headquarters at 800-543-3704.
Step 3: Monitor for Symptoms and Report
If you or a family member experience respiratory irritation (if used in a CPAP) or gastrointestinal distress after consumption, contact a healthcare provider. You should also report any “adverse events” to the FDA’s MedWatch program or the Consumer Product Safety Commission to help investigators identify the contaminant.
FAQs
What exactly was the black substance found in Meijer water?
As of January 2026, the FDA and Meijer have only described it as a “floating black foreign substance.” Investigation into whether it is charcoal filter media, plastic degradation, or biological growth is ongoing.
Which states are included in the Meijer water recall?
The recall affects stores in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Wisconsin.
Can I sue Meijer for the contaminated water?
If you have not been injured, your remedy is generally limited to a refund. However, if the water caused health issues or damaged expensive medical equipment, you should consult a product liability attorney to discuss a potential claim.
Is it safe to use the water if I don’t see anything floating?
No. The FDA advises consumers to stop using any water from the affected lot (39-222 #3) regardless of whether the contamination is visible to the naked eye.
How do I file a claim for a settlement?
There is currently no class action settlement form available. If a settlement is reached later in 2026, claimants will typically need to provide proof of purchase or photos of the affected product.
Last Updated: January 30, 2026
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. For legal concerns, consult a licensed attorney; for health concerns, seek medical attention.
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About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
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