Bacteria risk leads to Fabuloso recall in US

Federal officials in the United States have issued a notice that has led to the recall of several versions of a widely used multi-purpose cleaner that is popular in many parts of the world, and is available countrywide here in Guyana.

Nearly 5 million bottles of the brand, Fabuloso, are being recalled because they “may contain a type of bacteria that could be harmful to people with compromised immune systems.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the US has warned that the cleaners (five different scented versions are affected) may contain “Pseudomonas species bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas fluorescent.” The bacteria, which can be commonly found in water and soil, can lead to a serious infection in those who have underlying lung conditions or use external medical devices.

The bacteria can enter the body through the eyes, a break in the skin, or if it is inhaled.

People with healthy immune systems are not usually affected by the bacteria, officials said.

The recall includes products with lot codes that start with 2348US78 through 2365US78 and 3001US78 through 3023US78.

A notice on Fabuloso’s website says the cause is related to a manufacturing issue in which a preservative was not added at intended levels.

“With inadequate preservative, there is a risk of bacteria growth in the recalled products,” the notice says.

The affected products were made between December 14, 2022 and January 23, 2023, when the manufacturing issue was corrected, Fabuloso says. Some 3.9 million of these bottles — or about 80% — were never released to the public for sale, it says.

Many of the products on local shelves are made in Mexico, but
importers and consumers are still advised to check the lot codes and date of manufacture of their products before purchasing or usage.