Summer is in full swing, and for many of us, that means firing up the grill, gathering with friends and family, and savoring the smoky, mouthwatering flavors of a backyard barbecue.

But before you reach for your favorite seasoning blend, there’s an important update you need to know: a major recall has been issued for several popular BBQ seasonings due to an unexpected lurker in the mix.

Let’s break down what’s happening, why it matters, and what you should do to keep your next cookout safe and delicious.


On August 7, QST Ingredients and Packaging voluntarily recalled four of their seasoning products after discovering the possible presence of metal fragments.

Just a week later, the FDA classified this as a Class II recall—a serious step that signals a real, though not immediately life-threatening, risk to consumers.

A Class II recall, for those who may not be familiar, means that using or being exposed to the product could cause temporary or medically reversible health problems.

While the chance of severe harm is considered remote, the risks are nothing to brush off—especially for older adults, children, or anyone with dental or digestive sensitivities.


Here’s the full list of the recalled products, including their UPC codes and lot numbers. If you have any of these in your pantry, it’s time to take action:

1. BBQ Riblet Seasoning​

• UPC: QST# 5275
• Lot numbers: 059251, 079251, 154251, 170251, 170252

2. Reduced Sodium Roast Beef Rub​

• UPC: QST# 6313
• Lot numbers: 092251, 112251, 133251, 160251, 181251

3. Lemon Pepper Seasoning​

• UPC: QST# 6402
• Lot number: 118251

4. Cajun Seasoning​

• UPC: QST# 4546
• Lot number: 118251

A whopping 19,731 pounds of each product were distributed, primarily to California and Texas.

The seasonings were sent to four different customers, who either used them in further food processing or repackaged them for retail sale.

So, even if you didn’t buy directly from QST, these seasonings could have made their way into your kitchen under another label.


Also read: Are you unknowingly exposing your family to lead when you cook? FDA issues urgent cookware warning

You might be wondering, “How much harm can a tiny piece of metal really do?”

According to Dr. Mark Fischer, regional medical director at International SOS, ingesting metal or other foreign objects can cause cuts, internal injuries, or even require surgical removal.

For older adults, who may have dental work or sensitive digestive systems, the risks are even higher. Choking, tooth damage, and digestive tract injuries are all possible outcomes.

Even though, as of August 14, no injuries or illnesses have been reported, the FDA and food safety experts urge everyone to take this recall seriously.

As Darin Detwiler, a food policy professor at Northeastern University, points out, Class II recalls aren’t as urgent as Class I (which involve immediate danger), but they should still be followed to the letter. That means returning or disposing of the products as instructed.


Also read: FDA announces food recall affecting multiple Dollar General products

What should you do now?

1. Check Your Pantry: Look for the affected seasonings and lot numbers listed above.
2. Don’t Use Them: If you find any, do not consume them—even if they look and smell fine.
3. Dispose or Return: Follow the instructions from the place of purchase or the FDA for returning or safely disposing of the product.
4. Spread the Word: If you know friends or family who might have these seasonings, let them know about the recall.

Read next: Is your morning coffee safe? Urgent recall issued over possible glass contamination
Have you ever had to return a product because of a recall? How do you keep track of food safety in your home? Do you have any tips for fellow readers on staying safe and savvy in the kitchen?