Agency: Food and Drug Administration (FDA) | Date: 20260429 | Units: 405,136 packages (16 packages/case; 25,321 cases) | Risk: Class II
This alert was compiled from official government recall data published by the FDA using automated analysis. All facts are sourced directly from official records. Last verified May 7, 2026.
Stock photo for illustration — not the actual recalled product. Photo by Paul Einerhand on Unsplash
Heads Up: EL MEXICANO Horchata Drink Recall
Did you recently purchase EL MEXICANO agua fresca de horchata? If so, listen up. A recall has been issued for this popular drink due to an undeclared allergen.
This affects shoppers across the U.S., so it's important to check your pantry.
Recall Background
Marquez Brothers International, Inc. is initiating a voluntary product recall in the United States. This action concerns their EL MEXICANO agua fresca de horchata Instant Horchata Drink. The company is based in San Jose, CA.
It’s not uncommon for food products to be recalled. Sometimes it is due to mislabeling or contamination, and this highlights the importance of carefully checking labels, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities. Marquez Brothers will work with stores where the drink was sold across the U.S. to remove recalled product from shelves.
What’s the Problem? Undeclared Milk
The reason for this product recall in the United States? Undeclared milk. This means the label doesn't accurately list milk as an ingredient.
For those with milk allergies or sensitivities, this can create a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction. Nobody wants to risk their health over a simple drink.
Which Products Are Affected?
More than 400,000 packages are impacted. To be exact, 405,136 packages are being recalled.
Here's what to look for:
- Product: EL MEXICANO agua fresca de horchata Instant Horchata Drink
- Net Weight: 12oz (340g)
- UPC: 042743190204
- Item: 102279
Pay close attention to these Lot and Expiration dates:
- HR02324, 01/26/26
- HR02324, 01/29/26
- HR06424, 03/07/26
- HR09924, 04/09/26
- HR10024, 04/10/26
- HR12924, 05/09/26
- HR13024, 05/13/26
- HR13024, 05/14/26
- HR16424, 06/13/26
- HR17824, 06/27/26
- HR17824, 06/28/26
- HR21124, 07/30/26
- HR21224, 07/31/26
- HR23524, 08/26/26
- HR23624, 08/27/26
- HR26724, 09/25/26
- HR29724, 10/24/26
- HR29824, 10/25/26
- HR29924, 11/19/26
- HR32424, 11/20/26
- HR02225, 01/23/27
- HR02225, 01/24/27
- HR05825, 03/05/27
- HR05925, 03/06/27
- HR08625, 03/28/27
- HR08625, 03/31/27
- HR08725, 04/01/27
- HR15725, 06/09/27
- HR16025, 06/10/27
- HR16225, 06/12/27
- HR16325, 06/13/27
- HR19125, 07/11/27
- HR19225, 07/15/27
- HR23325, 08/22/27
- HR23225, 08/21/27
- HR27925, 10/08/27
- HR28225, 10/13/27
- HR34425, 12/15/27
- HR34525, 12/16/27
This recall affects products distributed domestically in these states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, FL, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, LA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NM, NV, OH, OK, OR, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI. The product was also distributed in Canada and Japan.
What To Do If You Have the Recalled Horchata
If you find you have this horchata mix in your home, don't panic. Here's what to do. Taking these steps protects you and your family.
- Stop using the product immediately if you are allergic to milk.
- Check your pantry carefully and compare the UPC and lot/expiration codes against the list provided above.
- Return the product to the store where you purchased it for a full refund.
- If you or a family member has consumed the product and experienced an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. Tell your doctor that the horchata mix had undeclared milk.
Recall Severity: Class II
The FDA has classified this as a Class II recall. A Class II recall is issued in situations where use of or exposure to a product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote. This recall was announced on 20260429.
Marquez Brothers International, Inc. will likely be working with retailers like Walmart, Target, and even online marketplaces like Amazon to remove impacted items from shelves. Many American shoppers get their groceries at these retailers, so it is important to check if you purchased the recalled drink there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is this horchata drink being recalled?
A: The product is being recalled because it contains undeclared milk, which poses a risk to people with milk allergies or sensitivities.
Q: What happens if I drink this horchata and I'm allergic to milk?
A: You could experience an allergic reaction, ranging from mild symptoms like hives or stomach upset to severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis; seek immediate medical attention if you have a reaction.
Q: Where can I find the lot code and expiration date on the package?
A: Look for the lot code and expiration date printed on the side or bottom of the EL MEXICANO agua fresca de horchata Instant Horchata Drink package.
Q: Can I still drink the horchata if I'm not allergic to milk?
A: While it might be safe for those without milk allergies, it's generally best to follow the recall instructions and return the product to avoid any potential issues.
Q: What should I do if the store refuses to give me a refund?
A: Contact Marquez Brothers International, Inc. directly for assistance; you can also report the issue to the FDA.
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Stop using it right away and follow the steps above. You may be entitled to a full refund, free repair, or replacement at no cost.