Shampoo Brand Pulled from Shelves Over Dangerous Bacterial Contamination Concerns
A popular shampoo has been urgently recalled after fears emerged that it might be contaminated with a harmful strain of bacteria known to cause serious infections. Henkel, a German manufacturing giant, has withdrawn over 1,000 units of its Tec Italy Totale Shampoo after tests revealed a possible contamination with Klebsiella oxytoca, a bacterium that can trigger infections in the eyes, skin, and nasal passages.
The recall primarily affects bottles sold in New York and California, but Henkel warned that the product might have reached additional U.S. states through online sales. The shampoo is also available to international consumers, including those in Europe.
According to Henkel’s official announcement, the affected product is packaged in green plastic bottles containing 33.81 fluid ounces (1 liter). The potentially contaminated items are marked with lot number 1G27542266 and bear the UPC code 7501438375850.
The company emphasized that no injuries or adverse health events have been reported so far. However, out of caution, they advised customers to immediately stop using the shampoo and return it to the point of purchase for a full refund.
Henkel explained that Klebsiella oxytoca typically doesn’t cause harm when confined to the intestinal tract, but if it enters the body through cuts or mucous membranes, it can lead to serious infections. For individuals with weakened immune systems, the risks are significantly higher. The bacteria can even lead to severe complications like pneumonia, causing symptoms such as fever, chills, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified the recall as Class II, which indicates that exposure to the product could cause temporary or medically reversible health effects, with a low probability of more serious outcomes.
Consumers who have any health concerns or experience unusual symptoms after using the shampoo are urged to contact a medical professional immediately.