Slim-Fast announces recall of 10 million diet drinks

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Unilever PLC corporation announced the recall of more than 10 million cans of Slim-Fast diet shakes due to possible contamination. The popular drinks were found to contain the micro-organism Bacillus cereous, which leads to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea when consumed.

The New Jersey-based Unilever determined that the recall was not limited to any specific flavor or size of drink, and all Slim-Fast canned drinks are being recalled. Slim-Fast diet shake cans are 11 fluid ounces in weight, and are available in cartons of four, six, and 12 cans. Representatives for Unilever and Slim-Fast have stressed that the recall does not involve any of the brand’s powered drink mixes or snack bars. It is uncertain at this time how much the recall is going to cost Unilever.
Bacillus cereous is a non-fatal organism, and is mostly responsible for general illness and discomfort for up to a few days. Unilever representatives stated that they do not know the cause of the contamination, but as affected consumers are refunded and the contaminated product is eliminated, the company will continue to investigate the cause.

Unilever strongly urges consumers to dispose of all recently purchased cans of Slim-Fast and to call (800) 896-9479 to process their full refunds.