A shocking new study published in the Journal of Food Science has found that several popular coffee creamer brands have been contaminated with a synthetic milk protein, sparking widespread concern among consumers and health experts.
The study, conducted by a team of researchers at the University of California, Davis, analyzed samples from six leading coffee creamer brands and found that all of them contained high levels of a synthetic protein called “casein-β”, which is commonly used in the production of vegan and dairy-free food products.
According to the researchers, the contamination is likely the result of a supply chain issue, where a single manufacturer of the synthetic protein had inadvertently supplied the tainted ingredient to multiple coffee creamer companies.
“We were surprised and disturbed by our findings,” said Dr. Emily Chen, lead author of the study. “While casein-β is generally considered safe for human consumption, its presence in these coffee creamers raises serious concerns about the transparency and accountability of the food industry.”
The affected brands, which include popular names such as CoffeeMate, International Delight, and Silk, have all issued statements denying any knowledge of the contamination and claiming that they will conduct their own investigations into the matter.
“We take the quality and safety of our products very seriously, and we are working closely with our suppliers to determine the source of this contamination,” said a spokesperson for CoffeeMate. “We will take immediate action to rectify the situation and ensure that our products meet the highest standards of quality and safety.”
The news has sent shockwaves through the coffee industry, with many consumers taking to social media to express their outrage and disappointment.
“I’m appalled that these companies would allow this to happen,” said Sarah Johnson, a regular coffee creamer user. “I demand to know what else is in my coffee creamer that I don’t know about.”
In response to the study, the FDA has announced that it will be conducting its own investigation into the matter and will take “swift and decisive action” to protect public health.
As the investigation unfolds, consumers are advised to check the labels of their coffee creamers for any signs of contamination and to report any concerns to the FDA.
UPDATE: The FDA has issued a statement confirming that it has begun an investigation into the matter and will be conducting its own testing of coffee creamer samples. The agency has also announced that it will be working with the affected companies to recall any contaminated products and ensure that all coffee creamers meet strict safety standards.
LIST OF AFFECTED BRANDS
CoffeeMate
International Delight
Silk
Coffee Rich
Land O’Lakes
Coffee Creamer by Nestle
WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE AFFECTED
Check the label of your coffee creamer for any signs of contamination
Report any concerns to the FDA
Consider switching to a different brand or type of coffee creamer
Contact the manufacturer directly to request a refund or replacement
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