Quality Choice Cough Drops Recalled Over Quality Concerns

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 4, 2026.

Heads up if you recently bought sugar-free cough drops! There's a new product recall in the United States you need to know about, especially if you're fighting off a spring cold or allergy season symptoms. Let's get right to it.

Quality Choice Sugar-Free Cough Drops Recalled

Xiamen Kang Zhongyuan Biotechnology Co., Ltd. is recalling QC Quality Choice, Menthol-Cough Suppressant Oral Anesthetic, Cough Drops, Sugar Free, Honey Lemon Flavor, 25-count bags. These cough drops were distributed by CDMA, Inc., out of Novi, Michigan, and made in China.

• Product: QC Quality Choice, Menthol-Cough Suppressant Oral Anesthetic, Cough Drops, Sugar Free, Honey Lemon Flavor, 25-count bag
• Distributed By: CDMA, Inc., Novi, MI 48375
• Made In: China
• NDC: 83698-616-25
• UPC: 635515993372
• Lot Codes: Lot # 20240720, Exp Date: 07/20/2026; Lot # 20241030, Exp Date: 10/30/2026

If you bought these cough drops for yourself or your family, here's what you need to know to stay safe.

Why These Cough Drops Are Being Recalled

Nobody wants to find out their cough drops could be unsafe. This recall is happening because of an FDA inspection. Here's the deal.

• The recall was initiated following a recommendation from the FDA.
• The FDA's recommendation was based on observations made during an inspection of Xiamen Kang Zhongyuan Biotechnology Co., Ltd.'s manufacturing facility on August 15, 2025.
• These observations raised concerns about the overall product quality.

While the agency hasn't specified the exact quality concerns yet, it's important to take this seriously. The FDA takes these kinds of issues seriously, and so should we.

Who's Affected by This Recall?

This recall is nationwide, so American shoppers across the U.S. are potentially affected. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Distribution: These cough drops were sold across the U.S.
• Severity: The FDA has classified this as a Class II recall, meaning use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.
• Retailers: While the official recall notice doesn't name specific stores, these Quality Choice cough drops are often found at smaller drug stores and pharmacies. It is unknown if major retailers like Walmart, Target, Amazon, or Costco carried this product.

If you purchased these cough drops anywhere in the United States, pay close attention to the lot numbers and expiration dates.

What You Should Do Right Now

Here's a simple checklist to help you handle this recall. Your health and safety are the top priority.

1. Immediately stop using the QC Quality Choice Sugar Free Honey Lemon cough drops with the affected lot codes (Lot # 20240720, Exp Date: 07/20/2026; Lot # 20241030, Exp Date: 10/30/2026).
2. Check your medicine cabinet and any other places you might have stored these cough drops, making sure to remove the recalled product.
3. Contact your healthcare provider if you have used these cough drops and are experiencing any unusual symptoms or health concerns.
4. Dispose of the recalled cough drops properly, ensuring that children and pets cannot access them, perhaps by sealing them in a bag and throwing them in an outside trash receptacle.
5. Consider informing friends and family who may have purchased these cough drops about the recall, especially if they bought them for children or elderly relatives.

Understanding the Recall Class

The FDA uses classifications to indicate the relative degree of hazard associated with a product recall. Knowing what these mean can help you understand the risk.

• This recall is classified as Class II.
• A Class II recall means that the product *might* cause a temporary health problem, or there is a slight risk of a more serious issue.
• It's not the most severe (Class I), but it's still important to take it seriously and follow the advice given.

While Class II recalls aren't usually life-threatening, it is important to follow the recommended steps and err on the side of caution as a U.S. consumer.

This recall was announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For the official notice and complete details, visit www.fda.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does it mean that the FDA made "observations" during the inspection?

It means the FDA inspectors saw something during their visit to the manufacturing facility that raised concerns about how the cough drops were being made, potentially affecting their quality.

Q: Should I be worried if I already used some of these cough drops?

If you've used the cough drops and feel fine, you probably don't need to worry, but if you experience any unusual symptoms, it's always best to check with your doctor or other health professional.

Q: How do I know if my cough drops are part of the recall?

Check the packaging for the UPC code (635515993372) and the lot codes (Lot # 20240720, Exp Date: 07/20/2026; Lot # 20241030, Exp Date: 10/30/2026) printed on the bag; if they match, your product is included in the recall.

Q: What kind of "quality" issues could these manufacturing observations cause?

Without specific details from the FDA, it's hard to say exactly, but potential issues could range from incorrect amounts of active ingredients to contamination with other substances.

Q: Has Xiamen Kang Zhongyuan Biotechnology Co., Ltd. had other similar recalls?

While this is the only listed recall for this company on the FDA website in the past few years, it is always important to stay informed about product recalls, especially those involving medications and supplements.