May 2025 — A popular shampoo brand is being urgently pulled from shelves due to contamination with a dangerous bacteria that could pose a serious health risk.
What’s Happening?
Henkel, a major German consumer goods company, has issued a recall for over 1,000 bottles of its Tec Italy Totale Shampoo after discovering potential contamination with Klebsiella oxytoca — a harmful bacterium that can cause infections in the eyes, skin, nose, and, in serious cases, the lungs or bloodstream.
What Bottles Are Affected?
- Product: Tec Italy Totale Shampoo
- Size: 33.81 fl oz (1 liter)
- Bottle Color: Green
- Lot Number: 1G27542266
- UPC Code: 7501438375850
- Sold In: Mainly New York and California, though other states and international buyers may also be affected
Why Is This Dangerous?
Klebsiella oxytoca is generally harmless in the digestive system but becomes dangerous if it spreads to other areas of the body, especially for people with weakened immune systems. Infections can lead to:
- Skin and eye infections
- Pneumonia
- Bloodstream infections
In severe cases, the bacteria can be fatal in up to 20% of infections.
Has Anyone Gotten Sick?
So far, no illnesses or injuries have been reported. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has classified the recall as Class II, meaning that while the risk is not widespread, serious health problems are possible.
What Should You Do?
- Stop using the product immediately
- Return it to the place of purchase for a full refund
- Contact a healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about possible exposure
Henkel has apologized for the incident and is cooperating with health authorities to ensure consumer safety.
