Jergens Ultra Healing Moisturizer Recall Due to Bacterial Contamination Risk

FDA is currently working with the Jergens lotion manufacturer to determine if additional lots of moisturizers be contaminated

More than a dozen lots of Jergens moisturizer are being recalled, due to a risk that the products may be contaminated with Pluralibacter gergoviae; an opportunistic bacteria capable of causing potentially harmful infections in humans.

The Jergens recall was announced by the FDA on March 18, indicating that consumers should stop using certain 3oz. and 10oz. Ultra Healing Moisturizer products while the agency works with the manufacturer to determine the extent of the contamination problems.

Pluralibacter gergoviae poses a particularly serious risk to those with pre-existing medical conditions, those who have recently undergone surgery, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Prior outbreaks of the pathogen have been difficult to treat, as some strains are antibiotic resistant.

The recall includes Jergens® Ultra Healing Moisturizer manufactured by Kao USA Inc. from October 1, 2021 to October 18, 2021. The products were sold in 3oz. bottles marked with UPC# 019100109971 for single bottles and 019100267114 for a pack of three. The impacted three ounce bottles include lot numbers ZU712851, ZU712911, ZU712861, ZU722851, ZU712871, ZU722881 and ZU712881. It also includes 10oz. bottles of Jergens® Ultra Healing Moisturizer manufactured during the same timeframe and marked with UPC# 019100109988 and lot numbers ZU722741, ZU732791, ZU722771, ZU732801, ZU722781, ZU732811, ZU732781 and ZU732821.

Kao USA Inc. indicates it will also begin working with its partners to improve internal cleaning and sanitation practices to prevent future bacteria exposures to its products and customers.

The FDA announced it will continue working with Kao USA Inc. to determine the source of the Pluralibacter gergoviae contamination, and whether any additional products may be impacted.

Customers are being instructed to check their existing inventory of the Jergens lotions and to contact the Kao USA Inc. Consumer Care Center at (800) 742-8798 or email them consumer@kao.com to receive a free product coupon.