Consumers have been warned to stop using a hypoallergenic shampoo sold from September through October out of fear it could be contaminated with Enterobacter gergoviae, which can cause an unspecified “significant infection or illness”.
The recalled product is A’kin Fragrance-Free Mild & Gentle Hypoallergenic Shampoo 225mL, made by McPherson’s Consumer Products and sold through Priceline stores, pharmacies and health stores. Only products bearing the bar code 9318329114140 and batch number AW1B01 are affected.
Consumers have been advised to return the product to the place of purchase for a refund and anyone experiencing unwellness should seek medical advice. Immunocompromised people are the most at risk of infection.
McPherson’s says the product was sold nationally, abroad and online between September 1 and October 11.
“Through our routine quality assurance testing, it was found that one batch of Akin Fragrance-Free Mild & Gentle Hypoallergenic Shampoo 225ml did not meet our product standards as it may contain a level of microbial activity that is not acceptable,” the company said in a statement.
“Extensive testing has indicated that no other batches or products in the Akin range have been impacted and are safe for use.
“The wellbeing and safety of McPherson’s customers is our first priority and in consultation with regulators, we have issued a voluntary recall … as a precautionary measure.
“We apologise for the inconvenience caused and are taking all measures to rectify the situation.”
