PepsiCo has recalled 122,000 cases of Gatorade across the U.S. after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified undeclared artificial dyes in certain products. The recall, initiated on September 25, affects 28-ounce bottles of Gatorade Lemon Lime, Gatorade Lemon Lime Zero, Gatorade Orange, and Gatorade Orange Zero sold in 37 states.
The FDA classified the recall as Class II on October 2, indicating that exposure to the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. The affected states include Alaska, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin.
The recall number is H-0009-2027. PepsiCo has not yet confirmed whether customers who purchased the recalled products are eligible for refunds.
Regulatory Background and Health Implications
The FDA’s recall notice specifies that the recalled Gatorade products contain Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine) and/or Yellow No. 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF), two synthetic dyes commonly used in food and beverage products. While these dyes are approved for use in the U.S., their presence was not declared on the product labels, violating FDA labeling requirements.
The Class II classification suggests that the risk to consumers is not severe or life-threatening, but the FDA advises caution. The dyes in question have been linked in some studies to allergic reactions, hyperactivity in children, and other sensitivities, though the FDA maintains that the levels in Gatorade are within safe consumption limits when properly labeled.
Scope of Distribution and Consumer Impact
The recall covers products distributed nationwide, with the exception of Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Maine, Montana, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming. The affected cases were sold through major retail chains and grocery stores, though specific retailers have not been named in the recall notice.
PepsiCo has not yet responded to requests for comment on refund policies, consumer reimbursement processes, or the root cause of the labeling error. The company has stated that it is cooperating fully with the FDA’s investigation.
Next Steps for Consumers
Consumers who have purchased the recalled Gatorade products are advised to discontinue use and contact PepsiCo or the retailer where the product was purchased for further instructions. The FDA has not issued a broader warning beyond the recalled batches, and no illnesses have been reported in connection with the issue as of the latest update.