Intercon Chemical Co. has initiated a recall of over 2,600 cases of foaming hand soap due to potential bacterial contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) designated the recall as a higher risk on September 11, impacting products sold across 15 states.
The affected states include California, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. While some of the soap was sold to wholesalers for use in workplaces and restaurants, other products were available to individual consumers at retail locations like Ingles Markets.
The FDA classified this as a Class II recall, meaning that exposure to the recalled soap could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects, or where the probability of adverse health effects from exposure is remote. The risk of serious side effects is considered considerably low.
Specific types of bacteria identified in some of the recalled products include Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas putida, Pseudomonas monteilii, Serratia marcescens, and Serratia nematodiphila. Four other recalled products are also being recalled for potential bacterial contamination, though specific organisms were not identified.
The recalled products include Intercon Foaming Pear Hand Soap With Aloe, Clearly Better by Intercon Foaming Pear Hand Soap With Aloe, Summit 150 Foaming Hand Soap, Vestis Foaming Hand Soap with Fresh Pear Scent, Laura Lynn Honey Apple Crisp Liquid Hand Soap, and Laura Lynn Foaming Pear Scent Hand Soap with Moisturizers.
Consumers are advised to check the product name, size, UPC, and lot information on their soap products. Given that many of these soaps were distributed through wholesalers, consumers are urged to inspect soap dispensers in workplaces and public restrooms, in addition to those at home.
Bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa can lead to infections including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and bloodstream infections. Serratia marcescens has also been linked to infections affecting the bloodstream, respiratory system, and urinary tract. Individuals with weakened immune systems may be particularly vulnerable to these types of infections.
Anyone who suspects they have experienced an illness or adverse reaction after using the recalled soaps should consult a healthcare professional. More information regarding the recall is available on the FDA website.