Del Maguey Mezcal Cups Recalled Due To Potential Lead Exposure

Del Maguey, a New York-based brand of artisanal mezcals, has recalled all ceramic ware mezcal cups, aka copitas, distributed for free to consumers alongside the sale and marketing of Del Maguey-branded mezcals. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Del Maguey voluntarily issued the recall May 1 after learning the cups may contain leachable lead in amounts higher than the limits set by the FDA for food ware.

This recall relates solely to the cups themselves and not to any bottled spirits sold by Del Maguey, and all such spirits are considered safe to consume, just not while using these particular copitas. As the FDA explains, ceramic food ware is prone to lead contamination. This is problematic because foods and beverages that come into contact with lead-contaminated food ware tend to absorb some of that lead and become contaminated themselves. Exposure to lead is unavoidable for humans, but the FDA recommends limiting that exposure. When lead exposure exceeds recommended levels, it is associated with serious health consequences.

So far, no illnesses or injuries stemming from consumer use of the recalled copitas have been reported to Del Maguey or its parent company, Pernod Ricard.

A copita is a tiny cup with a round body and flat base designed specifically for sipping mezcal. Del Maguey, a popular mezcal brand, had been supplying complementary copitas for consumers to use with mezcal tastings at various retail locations across the U.S. In addition, the company included four complementary copitas in a promotional pack relating to its 750-milliliter bottles of Vida de Muertos mezcal. These promotional packs were sold starting in October 2022.

The recalled copitas measure 2.5 inches wide and 1 inch tall and are made of enamel-coated red clay. The inside of each cup is embossed with the word Mexico in the center surrounded by the brand name "Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal." If you have any of the copitas in your possession, you should discard them without further use. If you purchased any of the promotional packs referenced above, the mezcal is fine to consume, but the copitas should be discarded and not used.

Del Maguey reports it is already working with a new supplier to produce legally compliant cups and is hoping to make the new cups available to consumers who wish to replace the recalled copitas. If you need further information or wish to obtain replacements when they become available, you can send an email to [email protected] or register your request on Del Maguey's website.