Consumers across the United States are being advised to check specific bottles of Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo after a voluntary nationwide recall linked to bacterial contamination. The recall affects selected lots manufactured in late February 2026 and applies to two bottle sizes.
The products were found to contain Pluralibacter gergoviae, a bacterium that generally presents little medical risk to healthy people but may pose a greater concern for individuals with weakened immune systems. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the recall also extends to Canada.
The recall was announced by Kao USA, the manufacturer of Oribe products, after the bacteria were detected in select lots. According to the FDA, the company is continuing its investigation to determine the full scope of the issue while working to remove affected products from warehouses and retail locations.
How to Identify the Recalled Shampoo
The recall is limited to specific lots of Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo sold in 8.5-ounce and 33.8-ounce bottles. According to Kao USA, only products manufactured between February 21, 2026, and February 26, 2026, are included.
The affected 8.5-ounce bottle carries UPC 840035231242 and lot code YR010556. The affected 33.8-ounce bottle carries UPC 840035231273 and lot codes YR010566 and YR010576. The lot codes are printed in black on the bottom of each bottle and begin with the prefix “YR.”
Kao USA is asking consumers to stop using any affected products regardless of whether they have experienced symptoms. The company has also instructed retail and salon partners to remove the specified lots from sale and return them for disposal.
Customers seeking a replacement or wishing to report an adverse event can contact the Kao Professional Hair Technical Hotline at 800-333-2442 or email [email protected], according to the company’s recall announcement.
What Is Pluralibacter Gergoviae and Why Was the Recall Issued?
According to the FDA, Pluralibacter gergoviae poses little medical risk to healthy people. The agency states that people with certain preexisting health conditions, particularly those with weakened immune systems, may be more susceptible to infection if exposed.
The bacterium is recognized for its ability to contaminate cosmetic products because it can resist parabens and other preservatives commonly used in formulations. The FDA notes that similar contamination led to the recall of nearly one million units of Amika shampoo in 2024.
Additional scientific literature provides context for why the organism is monitored in cosmetic manufacturing. According to a 2022 study published in the journal Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, Pluralibacter gergoviae is frequently recovered from environmental and industrial settings and is a known cause of cosmetic contamination due to its resistance to preservatives. The study also notes that while clinical disease is uncommon, opportunistic infections have been reported, particularly among immunocompromised individuals.
Kao USA said consumer safety remains its highest priority and stated that it is reviewing its manufacturing practices with partners in an effort to help prevent similar contamination events in the future. The company also said its investigation into the affected lots remains ongoing while the voluntary recall continues in coordination with the FDA.
