Fabuloso Recall: 4.9 Million Bottles Of Multipurpose Cleaners Pulled Due To Bacteria Concerns

Some 4.9 million units of Fabuloso-branded multipurpose cleaners are being recalled voluntarily over bacteria concerns. They may reportedly contain Pseudomonas bacteria.

The problem stemmed from the manufacturing stage of the products, according to the recall announcement on the Fabuloso website. Specifically, a certain preservative was not added "at the intended levels," thus posing the risk of bacteria growth.

Specifically, they may contain Pseudomonas bacteria including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas fluorescens, the company noted.

Pseudomonas are germs that can commonly be found in the environment such as in the soil and water, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In particular, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is said to be the one among Pseudomonas bacteria that "most often" causes infection in humans.

In 2017, for instance, Pseudomonas aeruginosa caused about 32,000 infections in hospitalized patients and led to 2,700 deaths in the U.S.

"People with weakened immune systems, external medical devices, or underlying lung conditions who are exposed to the bacteria face a risk of serious infection that may require medical treatment," the company noted. "The bacteria can enter the body if inhaled, through the eyes or through a break in the skin."

So far, there have been no reports of illnesses related to the recall.

The recall affects certain varieties and sizes of the Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaners, including those with the following scents: Ocean, Spring Fresh, Passion of Fruits, Lavender and Refreshing Lemon.

For instance, the recall includes "Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner 2X Concentrated Formula" in Lavender Scent, which was sold in 56, 128 and 169 fluid-ounce bottles, and the 56 fluid-ounce size of "Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner Bleach Alternative 2X Concentrated Formula" in Spring Fresh Scent, among others.

"The first eight digits of the lot code of the recalled products are 2348US78 through 2365US78 and 3001US78 through 3023US78," the recall notice on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website said.

The full list of the Fabuloso products affected by the recall, including the UPC and lot codes to look for, is available on both the company and CPSC recall websites. The company website has also provided photos of the recalled products including a guide on where customers may find the codes. It also cited the products that are not included in the issuance for customers' reference.

The affected products were manufactured from Dec. 14, 2022, to Jan. 23, 2023, and sold at "major retailers nationwide" from December 2022 to January 2023.

Some Fabuloso products are also being recalled in Canada, where about 56,000 units are affected.

Those who find that the product in their possession is a part of the recall are being advised to stop using it "immediately." Instead, they may request a refund or replacement of the product by submitting photos of the affected UPC and Lot codes. Instructions for the refund or replacement are available on the Fabuloso website.

Once they have confirmed that the product is included in the recall and have submitted their reimbursement or replacement request, they should then dispose of it in the trash without emptying the container.

They can use this form to request a refund or replacement. Those with questions may also contact Fabuloso's manufacturer, Colgate-Palmolive, at 855-703-0166.

"We greatly value the trust that our consumers and their families have in our Fabuloso® products," the Fabuloso website noted. "We remain committed to maintaining the highest level of product quality and have taken action to help ensure we live up to those standards."