For those using “Dollar General’s Clover Valley Instant Coffee,” this is an important notice. In July 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a recall for lots [L-5163], [L-5164], and [L-5165] due to suspected glass fragment contamination. These products were sold nationwide between July 9 and July 21, 2025, and there have been numerous consumer concerns raised about their safety.
Are you worried, wondering “Is the product I bought safe?” or “What are the health risks?” In fact, contamination with glass fragments can lead to serious injuries such as cuts to the mouth or throat and even intestinal perforation. Several reports of health issues have already been confirmed.
In this article, we will clearly explain the background of the recall, how to identify the affected products, and what to do if you are impacted, using verified data from experts and public agency announcements. In addition, we will compare other brands and share real-life examples of consumer responses, supporting you in taking the right steps with confidence.
By reading this information, you’ll learn concrete steps to minimize health risks for yourself and your family. First, check your coffee at home, and let’s walk through the necessary actions together.
- Overview and Latest Information on the Dollar General Coffee Recall
- Causes of Glass Contamination and Detailed Health Risks
- How to Identify and Confirm Recalled Products
- Detailed Explanation of the Latest Recall List – Specific Lot Numbers, UPC Codes, and Expiration Dates
- Reliable Sources for Recall Information and How to Check – Guidance on Using the FDA, USDA, and Dollar General Official Websites
- Scope and Important Points of the 2025 Clover Valley Instant Coffee Recall – How to Identify Additional Recalls and Non-Affected Products
- Specific Procedures for Refunds, Returns, and Consumer Response
- Refund/Return Application Process – Detailed Steps and Required Documents for In-store, Online, and Mail Options
- Contact and Inquiry Methods – Phone Number (888-309-9030), Email Address (customercare@dollargeneral.com), Including Hours of Operation and Key Points
- Consumer Experiences and Troubleshooting Examples – Real Cases from Social Media and Reviews
- Safety and Quality Control System of Dollar General Products
- Latest News on Related Coffee Recalls and Food Safety
- Features and User Reviews of Clover Valley Instant Coffee
- Knowledge Useful for Choosing Coffee Products and Handling Recalls
- Key Points for Safely Choosing Coffee Products – How to Check Recall History and a Guide to Selecting with Safety in Mind
- Recall Information for Coffee Filters and Creamers – Recent Recall Cases and Safety Checkpoints
- Coffee Recipes and Alternative Tips for Home – Easy Recipes and Substitutes During Recalls
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Overview and Latest Information on the Dollar General Coffee Recall
Circumstances and Announcement Date
In July 2025, consumers reported suspected glass fragments in Clover Valley Instant Coffee sold by Dollar General. The official announcement was made in mid-July, and Dollar General immediately decided to voluntarily recall the affected products. The recall notice was posted on the official website and the FDA recall list, making consumers across the U.S. aware. While there have been no confirmed reports of health damage at this time, the swift response reflects the seriousness of the potential danger. The company is prioritizing consumer safety and working to ensure transparency regarding recall information.
Detailed Information on Affected Products and Sales Regions
The recall targets Clover Valley brand instant coffee in the following lots:
| Product Name | Lot Number | UPC Code | Best By Date | Sales Period | Sales Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clover Valley Instant Coffee | L-5163 | 876941004069 | December 13, 2026 | July 9–21, 2025 | All Dollar General stores nationwide |
| Clover Valley Instant Coffee | L-5164 | 876941004069 | December 13, 2026 | July 9–21, 2025 | All Dollar General stores nationwide |
| Clover Valley Instant Coffee | L-5165 | 876941004069 | December 14, 2026 | July 9–21, 2025 | All Dollar General stores nationwide |
Key Points
- The above three lots are suspected of possible glass fragment contamination.
- Purchasers should always check the lot number and best by date on their product.
- If you have an affected item, contact the store where you purchased it or customer support for a refund.
Positioning of the 2025 Coffee Recall Within the Industry
In 2025, several coffee recalls have occurred across the industry, with major brands such as Folgers and Starbucks also issuing recalls. The Dollar General recall is particularly serious as it is due to foreign matter contamination with glass fragments, posing significant health risks. Other brands’ recalls have been mostly due to foreign matter, quality issues, or labeling errors, but glass fragment contamination carries a far greater potential for harm.
| Brand | Main Recall Reason | Year Announced |
|---|---|---|
| Clover Valley (Dollar General) | Glass fragment contamination | 2025 |
| Folgers | Foreign matter contamination, labeling errors | 2025 |
| Starbucks | Quality issues, labeling errors | 2025 |
In this way, Dollar General’s recall stands out within the industry for its uniqueness and high level of risk. To regain consumer trust, rapid response and the accurate provision of information are essential.
General Procedure for Food Recalls and Their Impact on Consumers
When a food recall occurs, companies first identify the problematic products and promptly issue an official announcement. Following this, they collect the recalled products, offer refunds, and notify consumers. There are three key actions consumers should take:
- Check Inventory at Home: Verify whether you have any products with the relevant lot numbers or expiration dates.
- Dispose of or Return Products: For safety, discard the product whether it is unopened or opened, or return it to the retailer.
- Refunds and Inquiries: Contact Dollar General Customer Support (via email or phone) to process your refund.
By following these steps, consumers can prevent health hazards before they occur. Recall information is updated regularly on official websites, the FDA recall list, and news sites, so it is vital to stay informed with the latest updates.
Causes of Glass Contamination and Detailed Health Risks
Causes of Glass Fragment Contamination and Risk Analysis in the Manufacturing Process
The main cause of glass fragments contaminating Clover Valley instant coffee is breakage of machine parts or glass components on the production line. In particular, there is a risk of glass being damaged near the bottling process or conveyor equipment, with fine fragments mixing into the product. If the inspection of containers or bottles during the packaging process is insufficient, foreign materials may be overlooked.
The table below summarizes the main contamination risk points and countermeasures.
| Process | Contamination Risk Factor | Preventive Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Raw Material Input | Breakage of raw material containers | Visual and mechanical inspection upon receipt |
| Production Line | Wear or breakage of machine parts | Regular inspections, metal and foreign object detectors |
| Packaging Process | Breakage of bottles or packaging | Automated inspection, spot checks by humans |
Thorough risk management like this is crucial to prevent contamination by foreign materials before it happens.
Specific Examples of Health Hazards and Risk Assessment
If glass fragments are mixed into coffee, there is a risk of causing serious health damage to consumers.
- Lacerations in the mouth and throat: If glass fragments are ingested, they can cause sharp injuries to the tongue, gums, or throat lining.
- Tooth damage: Biting down may chip or break teeth, increasing the risk of such accidents.
- Intestinal perforation or gastrointestinal injury: If swallowed accidentally, glass can harm the stomach or intestines, leading to serious internal injuries or bleeding.
Actual cases have been reported, ranging from minor oral bleeding to severe cases requiring surgical intervention due to glass fragment contamination. To avoid health risks, if you notice anything unusual, seek medical attention immediately.
Comparative Analysis with Other Foreign Object Contamination Recalls
Food recalls are not limited to glass fragments; there have been various cases of contamination by foreign objects in recent years, such as those listed below.
| Recall Target | Type of Foreign Object | Examples of Health Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen Foods | Metal fragments | Oral injuries, gastrointestinal injury |
| Dairy Products | Plastic fragments | Choking, indigestion |
| Meat Products | Listeria bacteria | Food poisoning, severe infections |
Glass fragment contamination carries a particularly high risk of physical injury and is considered more urgent compared to other types of foreign object contamination. Consumers should regularly check recall information and never consume products suspected of being contaminated.
How to Identify and Confirm Recalled Products
Dollar General’s Clover Valley instant coffee has been designated as a recalled product. To accurately determine whether your purchased coffee falls under the recall, please be sure to check the following information.
Detailed Explanation of the Latest Recall List – Specific Lot Numbers, UPC Codes, and Expiration Dates
The Clover Valley Instant Coffee subject to this recall is designated by specific lot numbers, expiration dates, and UPC codes. For your safety, please compare the product you have on hand with the following information.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Clover Valley Instant Coffee |
| Net Weight | 8 ounces (approx. 227g) |
| UPC Code | 876941004069 |
| Lot Numbers | L-5163, L-5164, L-5165 |
| Expiration Date | December 13, 2026, December 14, 2026 |
| Sales Period | July 9, 2025 – July 21, 2025 |
If you have any of the affected products, do not use them for drinking or cooking under any circumstances, and take prompt action as instructed below.
Reliable Sources for Recall Information and How to Check – Guidance on Using the FDA, USDA, and Dollar General Official Websites
It is important to obtain recall information from reliable official organizations. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USDA, and the official Dollar General website provide the latest and most accurate recall updates.
- On the FDA’s official website, you can check the “Recall List” and “Enforcement Report” for detailed and additional information about recalled products.
- The Dollar General official website and customer support also provide refund procedures and announcements regarding additional recalls.
- There is also a page listing all food recalls, allowing you to check the safety of other products as well.
If you have any questions, it is recommended to contact Dollar General customer service directly by phone or email.
Scope and Important Points of the 2025 Clover Valley Instant Coffee Recall – How to Identify Additional Recalls and Non-Affected Products
This recall is limited to certain lots of Clover Valley brand instant coffee. Please pay attention to the following points.
- Products with non-affected lot numbers, different UPC codes, or different expiration dates are not included in this recall.
- Other Clover Valley products (such as coffee filters or coffee candies) are unrelated to this recall.
- There is a possibility that additional recalls may be announced in the future, so it is important to check for updates regularly.
If you have an affected product, you can apply for a refund through the official Dollar General contact point. If you find any foreign objects such as glass fragments, refrain from consumption and dispose of the product immediately.
Specific Procedures for Refunds, Returns, and Consumer Response
Refund/Return Application Process – Detailed Steps and Required Documents for In-store, Online, and Mail Options
Refunds and returns for the recalled Dollar General Clover Valley Instant Coffee are handled through a simple and prompt process. First, confirm whether your purchased product is subject to the recall. If you have the product packaging or receipt, the procedure will go even more smoothly.
Procedure flow:
- In-store Refund/Return:
- Bring the affected product to the store of purchase
- Present the product packaging and receipt
- After staff verify the product, you will be refunded on the spot
- By Mail/Online Application:
- Contact customer service by email or phone
- Provide required information (name, purchase date, store name, product photos, etc.)
- Return the product by the specified method
- After confirmation, the refund will be issued to your designated bank account or credit card
Required documents and information:
- Packaging of the affected product
- Proof of purchase/receipt (not mandatory, but helps speed up the process)
- Name, contact information, and store of purchase
Contact and Inquiry Methods – Phone Number (888-309-9030), Email Address (customercare@dollargeneral.com), Including Hours of Operation and Key Points
A dedicated customer support desk has been set up for inquiries and refund applications. Both phone and email are available, and guidance regarding consultations and procedures is provided in a courteous manner.
Contact Information:
| Method | Contact Information | Reception Hours (Central Standard Time) |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | 888-309-9030 | 6:00–25:00 |
| customercare@dollargeneral.com | 24 hours (responses handled in order) |
Tips for Inquiries:
- Having the product name and lot number ready makes the process smoother
- If contacting outside of business hours, email is convenient
- Progress on refunds or returns can also be checked at any time
Consumer Experiences and Troubleshooting Examples – Real Cases from Social Media and Reviews
On social media and review sites, consumers who actually purchased the recalled products have shared their experiences.
Main Stories and Cases:
- Good Example of Prompt Response
“When I showed the package at the store, I was immediately given a refund. The staff were courteous, so I felt at ease.” - Case When Receipt Was Lost
“I’d lost my receipt, but they handled it with just the product package. I was asked to show ID, but the process went through without any issues.” - Trouble During Inquiry Congestion
“There were times when it was hard to get through by phone, but when I emailed, I got a reply the next day.”
Points to Note:
- During busy periods or right after a recall announcement, inquiries may become concentrated and response times may be longer
- To prevent mistakes in providing product information or contact details, it’s best to organize the necessary information in advance
Based on these consumer experiences, it’s clear that Dollar General’s recall response is generally swift, and even if problems arise, appropriate support is available.
Safety and Quality Control System of Dollar General Products
Quality Assurance and Inspection System for Clover Valley Products
Dollar General products—including Clover Valley instant coffee—are manufactured based on strict quality control standards. The production process employs a multi-layered checking system to prevent foreign matter contamination and strictly manages lot numbers for each product. In addition, regular sampling inspections by external certified testing agencies are conducted to ensure compliance with food safety standards. The manufacturing line utilizes advanced technologies such as metal detectors and X-ray inspection machines to minimize the risk of glass fragments or foreign objects mixing in. These efforts are one of the reasons consumers can choose Dollar General coffee and related products with confidence.
| Item | Implementation Details |
|---|---|
| Foreign Matter Inspection at Production | All lots screened using metal detectors and X-ray inspection machines |
| Lot Number Management | Each package printed with an individual lot number to ensure traceability |
| Use of External Inspection Agencies | Regular food safety inspections and certifications by third-party organizations |
| Response When Recall Occurs | Swift disclosure of information and product recall, with refund systems in place |
Consumer Reviews and Voices from Social Media
Consumer reviews and opinions on social media regarding Dollar General’s coffee products serve as important reference points when choosing products. Especially on Reddit and review sites, positive comments such as “great value for the price” and “easy to get” stand out. On the other hand, in connection with the recent voluntary recall of instant coffee, many voices have also praised the prompt sharing of information about the risk of glass contamination and the quick refund response.
The main opinions can be summarized as follows:
- Praise for affordability and convenience
- Reassurance from swift recall response and refunds
- Increased trust in quality control measures
- Heightened consumer awareness thanks to information spreading on social media
These real voices demonstrate that Dollar General prioritizes the consumer perspective.
Company Recurrence Prevention Measures and Future Improvement Plans
In response to this recall, Dollar General has announced further recurrence prevention measures. The company is strengthening foreign object contamination risk assessments at manufacturing plants, re-examining inspection processes, and ensuring thorough food safety education for employees. Additionally, Dollar General has committed to rapid consumer notifications and bolstered refund processes in the event of a recall, aiming to restore trust. Moving forward, the company plans to continue enhancing the safety of all products, drawing on industry trends and recall cases from other companies.
| Improvement Measures | Details |
|---|---|
| Further enhancement of inspection systems | Installation of new X-ray inspection machines on production lines and increased sampling frequency |
| Expansion of employee education | Implementation of regular training programs on food safety |
| Transparency in information disclosure and customer response | Prompt release of recall information, clarification of refund and return procedures |
| Industry collaboration and continuous improvement | Ongoing review of product safety standards utilizing other company recalls and the latest FDA information |
Dollar General maintains a corporate stance that places the highest priority on safety and security, and promises to continue producing products that consumers can trust.
Latest News on Related Coffee Recalls and Food Safety
2025 Major Coffee Recall Summary – Current Situation Analysis in Comparison with Folgers, Starbucks, and Other Cases
In 2025, several major brands have experienced coffee recalls, rapidly increasing public concern over food safety. Dollar General’s Clover Valley instant coffee was recalled due to possible glass contamination. In addition, brands like Folgers and Starbucks have encountered quality issues, prompting recall measures.
The table below compares the main coffee recall cases that have made headlines this year.
| Brand | Product Name | Main Reason for Recall | Target Lot/Period | Response (Refund, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollar General | Clover Valley Instant Coffee | Possible glass contamination | July 2025 sales | Disposal, full refund |
| Folgers | Folgers Classic Roast | Foreign matter, off-flavor | Certain lots in June 2025 | Refund, exchange |
| Starbucks | Frappuccino Bottled Drink | Reports of glass contamination | Feb.–Apr. 2025 shipments | Refund, inquiry hotline |
For all brands, the main reasons for recall have been glass or foreign matter contamination, making it essential to check products before consumption. Recall lists and the latest information are regularly updated on each company’s official website and FDA announcements.
Recent Food Recall Trends – Increased Foreign Matter & Hygiene Issues
Recent food recalls have shown a trend toward increased incidents of foreign matter like glass or metal fragments, as well as microbial contamination due to inadequate hygiene management. Especially with coffee and beverage products, trouble on the production line can directly translate into health risks, so extra caution is called for.
The following points are especially important for consumers:
- Always check the packaging and product appearance for any abnormalities after purchase
- If you have purchased a recalled product, stop consuming it immediately and use the designated refund or inquiry contacts provided by each brand
- Regularly check recall lists and the latest news, and review the food stock in your home
Food recalls can occur not just at major chains like Dollar General, but also at other supermarkets and smaller brands. Staying alert to recall information and taking the correct measures helps prevent health damage.
Features and User Reviews of Clover Valley Instant Coffee
Price & Cost-Performance – Market Price Comparison, Pros & Cons of Value
Clover Valley Instant Coffee is an original brand from Dollar General, and its affordable price is a major draw. Even compared to other instant coffees on the market, it boasts excellent cost performance.
| Product Name | Net Weight | Reference Price | Price per 100g |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clover Valley Instant Coffee | 226g | Around ¥400 | About ¥177 |
| Folgers Classic Roast | 226g | Around ¥550 | About ¥243 |
| Starbucks VIA | 100g | Around ¥900 | About ¥900 |
Merits
- Low price makes it perfect for daily use
- Easily available at Dollar General stores nationwide
- Large size offers great cost performance
Demerits
- Flavor and aroma are milder compared to premium brands
- Some concerns about safety due to recall information
In this way, despite its low price, it maintains a certain level of quality and receives high marks from users who prioritize value for money.
Manufacturer & Origin Information – Company Overview, Country of Origin, Product Lineup
Clover Valley Instant Coffee is a private brand developed by Dollar General and is manufactured by several reputable food companies. Details about the manufacturer are listed on the back of the package, and production is mainly handled at factories within the United States.
Examples of Product Lineup
- Clover Valley Classic Instant Coffee
- Clover Valley Decaf Instant Coffee
- Clover Valley Flavored Instant Coffee
Features
- Strict quality control and compliance with safety standards
- Multiple variations available, allowing you to choose according to your preferences
- Packaging clearly indicates country of origin and lot number, making it easy to check in case of a recall
The peace of mind that comes from being produced in the United States, along with a wide lineup of products, are reasons why consumers continue to support this brand.
Caffeine Content and Flavor Profile – Ingredient Information, Flavor Trends, Expert and User Reviews
Clover Valley Instant Coffee contains a standard amount of caffeine. Each cup (about 2g) contains approximately 60–70mg of caffeine, which is comparable to most instant coffees.
Flavor Profile
- Light and mild taste
- Characterized by a well-balanced richness rather than bitterness
- Clean aftertaste, making it easy to drink
Voices from Users and Experts
- “If you care about value for money, the taste is more than satisfactory.”
- “No peculiarities—just right for daily drinking.”
- “It may feel a bit lacking for purists, but it’s great for everyday use.”
It enjoys broad support, from instant coffee beginners to regular users. As long as you check the latest information on safety and quality, you can enjoy this coffee with peace of mind.
Knowledge Useful for Choosing Coffee Products and Handling Recalls
Key Points for Safely Choosing Coffee Products – How to Check Recall History and a Guide to Selecting with Safety in Mind
To choose safe coffee products, it is important to check past recall histories and the reliability of the manufacturer in advance. Recall information can be found on the official website of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and on the official announcement pages of each brand. Search using major brand names such as Dollar General or Clover Valley, and regularly check for the latest recalls or product safety announcements.
Key points to be especially aware of are as follows:
- Check the lot number and expiration date listed on the product package
- Before purchasing, research official websites and recall lists to see if there are any relevant recalls
- Monitor topics on SNS and forums, such as searching “dollar general coffee recall reddit”
- Investigate whether there have been reports of health hazards or foreign matter contamination
The table below summarizes the elements you should focus on when choosing coffee.
| Item to Confirm | How to Check | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Recall history | Check official website & FDA list | ★★★★☆ |
| Manufacturer reliability | Reviews & brand track record | ★★★★☆ |
| Ingredients/raw materials | Label & manufacturer explanations | ★★★★☆ |
| Storage/distribution info | Store quality control & storage | ★★★☆☆ |
| Price reasonableness | Comparison with other products | ★★★☆☆ |
By keeping these points in mind, you can enjoy your coffee life with confidence.
Recall Information for Coffee Filters and Creamers – Recent Recall Cases and Safety Checkpoints
Coffee filters and creamers have also been subject to recalls, so safety checks are essential. Recently, there have been voluntary recalls due to poor paper quality in coffee filters, foreign matter contamination in creamers, and incorrect labeling of allergens. Especially for everyday items like “dollar general coffee filters” or “dollar general coffeemate,” be sure to check recall lists regularly.
How to check recall information and safety checkpoints are as follows:
- Regularly check announcements from the FDA and each manufacturer
- Be aware of the product name, lot, expiration date, and UPC code
- Do a simple visual check for abnormalities immediately after purchase
- Get the latest information from SNS and consumer forums
| Product Category | Representative Recall Cases | Main Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Filters | Foreign matter contamination; poor paper quality | Decreased coffee flavor; hygiene issues |
| Creamers | Mislabeling of allergenic ingredients; foreign matter contamination | Allergic reactions; health hazards |
If you have purchased a recalled product, please contact the seller immediately to proceed with a refund or exchange.
Coffee Recipes and Alternative Tips for Home – Easy Recipes and Substitutes During Recalls
Even during a recall, you can still enjoy your coffee time at home by making use of easy recipes and alternatives. For example, if you don’t have instant coffee on hand, you can use coffee beans brewed with a French press or drip method, or try arranging your drink as a café au lait or iced coffee.
Here are some recommended easy recipes:
- Authentic Coffee with a French Press
- Easily brew with just coarse ground beans and hot water
- Coffee Jelly or Coffee Shake
- Turn leftover coffee into a dessert
- Café au Lait / Affogato
- Enjoy a rich flavor with milk or ice cream
Also, during a recall, consider alternatives such as instant coffee or beans from other trusted brands or Japanese-made filters with a focus on paper quality. Before purchasing, be sure to check multiple reviews and official information to confirm safety.
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