A popular shampoo brand has been recalled across the United States after authorities detected the presence of a potentially deadly bacterium in over 1,000 units. According to a report by Daily Mail, the voluntary recall affects bottles of Tec Italy Shampoo for dry and damaged hair, manufactured by the German company Henkel and distributed to professional beauty salons.
Contaminated Shampoo Linked to Dangerous Bacterium
The recall was initiated after tests revealed contamination by Klebsiella oxytoca, a bacterium naturally found in the intestinal tract, mouth, and nose. While typically harmless in these areas, it can become dangerous if it spreads to other parts of the body.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that Klebsiella oxytoca can cause severe health issues if it enters the bloodstream, potentially leading to fever, chills, difficulty breathing, and in some cases, sepsis. The reported mortality rate for infections that spread beyond the gut ranges from 10% to 20%, especially among people with compromised immune systems.
Specific Product Details and Distribution
A total of 1,068 bottles of the affected shampoo, all with the expiration date of May 27, 2027 and lot code 1G27542266, were shipped from a facility in Mexico. The product was distributed to C&R Beauty, Caesar’s Professional Products Inc, and Vero Beauty Distributors.
While Tec Italy products are commonly available through major retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Amazon, these specific units were sold directly to professional salons, where customers may have purchased them over the counter. At this time, no illnesses have been reported.
Health Risk Classification and Symptoms
The FDA has classified the recall as Class II, which indicates that use of the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, though the risk of serious outcomes is considered relatively low.
Infection symptoms can include abdominal pain, urinary discomfort, vomiting, and respiratory distress. While most cases are manageable with antibiotics, individuals with underlying health conditions are at a higher risk of complications.
The agency has not yet issued specific guidance on how consumers should dispose of the recalled shampoo, but urges those in possession of the affected lot to stop using the product immediately.
Recent Recall History and Context
This is not the first time Tec Italy products have faced regulatory scrutiny. Earlier this year, the brand’s Tonico Shampoo was also recalled over concerns of E. coli contamination. These successive events have raised further questions about quality control and manufacturing standards in personal care products distributed internationally.
Consumers are encouraged to check the lot code and expiration date of any Tec Italy shampoo they may have purchased from a salon and to report any health concerns to their healthcare provider or the FDA.
As of now, no injuries or illnesses have been officially linked to the contaminated products, but the situation continues to be monitored by health authorities.
