Sellers blame beer shortage as unapproved Sangria drink remains in market

Almost two months after the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) ordered a recall of Grand Chateaux Sangria Forte, the banned drink is still being sold in shops and bars across the country.

JoyNews checks show that despite the recall, many pubs, drinking spots, and regular shops continue to stock and sell the unregistered alcoholic drink. The continued sale of the product raises concerns about how well FDA regulations are being followed and enforced.

The FDA had recalled the drink on March 19, 2025, due to safety and regulatory issues. The specific versions affected were the Tetra Pak (250ml) and the Canned (330ml Pétillante) types. According to the FDA, the product was being promoted on social media and sold in markets even though it had not been approved or registered.

The FDA also promised to take stricter action to make sure such unapproved products are taken off the shelves. However, two months later, many sellers are still offering the drink to customers.

Some shop owners say they are still selling Grand Chateaux Sangria Forte because of the shortage of popular beer brands. They claim that customers are asking for Sangria as a substitute.

“Customers purchase the Grand Chateaux Sangria Forte drink that one and the Coffee Ram moves,” a shop owner said, explaining that these drinks have become popular in recent weeks.

For now, both the public and health officials remain concerned about the easy availability of an unapproved drink that may pose health risks. The FDA is yet to follow through fully with enforcement, raising questions about how such recalls are managed and monitored.