Dangerous bacteria in shampoo bottles prompts Henkel product recall

By Alessandro Carrara | Published: 26-Mar-2025

Henkel is working with the US Food and Drug Administration, and claimed there have been no reports of user harm or injury related to the products contaminated with the Klebsiella Oxytoca bacteria

Henkel’s Mexico branch has voluntarily recalled 1,068 units of its Tec Italy Shampoo Totale that are contaminated with a dangerous bacterium. 

Exposure to the Klebsiella Oxytoca bacteria can cause infections in humans, including infection in the eyes, nose and skin. 

The bacteria are commonly found within the human gut biome, but can be dangerous if encountered outside of this environment. 

This includes triggering additional reactions for consumers with immune-compromised conditions, which in rare cases can cause death. 

The recalled Tec Italy brand Totale Shampoo is packaged in a 33.81 fl. oz./1 L, green plastic bottle marked with Lot # 1G27542266 on the side of the bottle. 

The UPC code is 7501438375850. 

“The shampoo was distributed in the US through distributors in New York and California,” Henkel said in a statement. 

“The shampoo may have been further distributed to other states. It was also sold to consumers at the retail level.” 

Henkel claimed there have been no reports of user harm or injury related to the affected products, and is working with the US Food and Drug Administration.

“Consumers who experience symptoms, or have any medical questions associated with this recall, should consult a physician immediately,” the brand added. 

“Tec Italy seeks to minimise all inconvenience this may cause consumers and are committed to their complete satisfaction.” 

Consumers with concerns can contact Tec Italy’s customer service line at sacli@henkel.com. 

Cosmetics Business has contacted Henkel for a comment. 

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