The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has upgraded a voluntary recall of six hand soap products manufactured by Intercon Chemical Co. due to fears of bacterial contamination. The Missouri-based company initially issued the recall on June 29, and the FDA has now classified it as a Class II recall, indicating that the use of or exposure to the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.

The recalled soaps may be contaminated with Pseudomonas and Serratia bacteria, which can cause infections. These bacteria are commonly found in soil and water. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pseudomonas aeruginosa can lead to blood infections, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections. Serratia marcescens has also been linked to blood infections, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections, as well as infections of the eyes, stomach, brain, bones, and heart. Both types of bacteria are typically treatable with antibiotics.

The products were distributed to 20 recipients, including 19 wholesalers and one retailer, across 15 states: North Carolina, Mississippi, North Dakota, Nebraska, Maryland, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Georgia, Pennsylvania, California, Illinois, Iowa, New York, Texas, and Washington. Some of the affected soaps may be in use at businesses or public spaces, while one product, under the Laura Lynn brand, was sold directly to consumers at retail.

Consumers who possess any of the recalled soaps are advised to stop using them immediately. If symptoms of illness arise, individuals should contact their healthcare provider.

The specific products included in the recall are:

  • Intercon Foaming Pear Hand Soap With Aloe, 28.7 fluid ounces (UPC code 789745002981, best-by dates: 01/12/2028, 03/13/2028, 03/28)
  • Clearly Better by Intercon Foaming Pear Hand Soap with Aloe, 1,000 milliliters (UPC code 789745002615, best-by dates: 03/13/28, 03/28)
  • Summit 150 Foaming Hand Soap, 28.7 fluid ounces (UPC code 810080570030, best-by dates: 02/03/2028, 02/04/2028, 02/05/2028)
  • Vestis Foaming Hand Soap, Fresh Pear Scent, 33.8 fluid ounces (UPC code 810080570405, best-by date: 05/28)
  • Laura Lynn Honey Apple Crisp Liquid Hand Soap, 8 fluid ounces (UPC code 086854074305, best-by dates: 11/05/26, 03/28)
  • Laura Lynn Foaming Pear Scent Hand Soap with Moisturizers, 7.5 fluid ounces (UPC code 08685407408, best-by date: 03/13/28)

The FDA's compliance report indicates that the recall is ongoing and was initiated by the company.