Procter & Gamble initiates voluntary recall of defective detergent packets

USA – Procter & Gamble (P&G) has announced a voluntary recall of 8.2 million defective detergent packets packaged in flexible film bags from the US market due to potential serious injury to children.

The affected products include Tide Pods, Gain Flings, Ace Pods, and Ariel Pods liquid laundry detergent packets.

The recall also extends to approximately 56,741 units sold in Canada, encompassing specific lot codes of these detergent packets.

These defective packets, ranging from 12 to 39 per bag, were produced between September 2023 and February 2024.

According to P&G, the outer packaging designed to prevent access to the contents of the detergent packets may split open along the zipper track, posing a significant risk of injury to children and other vulnerable populations if ingested.

Potential risks also include skin or eye irritation and, in severe cases, fatal outcomes for individuals with underlying medical conditions upon consuming substantial amounts of any household cleaning product containing surfactant.

As of now, there are no confirmed reports of incidents or injuries associated with this packaging flaw. However, P&G has received four reports of minors accessing the liquid laundry packets, three of which involved ingestion during the period when the recalled lots were sold.

P&G is offering full refunds and free replacement child-resistant bags to customers who own the affected products.

The company advises consumers to immediately store the recalled bags out of children’s reach and sight. Additionally, P&G is providing cabinet locks for securing laundry supplies.

It’s important to note that the recall applies exclusively to bags distributed in the US, and customers are urged to check the lot code on their bag to determine if it is included in the recall.

The affected products were sold at various retail outlets such as Big Lots, CVS, Family Dollar, Home Depot, Sam’s Club, Target, Walmart, and online platforms like Amazon.com and others.

This proactive recall underscores P&G’s commitment to consumer safety and highlights the importance of preventive measures to mitigate potential risks associated with household products.

Recently, Tesco Supermarkets issued an urgent food recall for iconic Viennetta Vanilla dessert because the labelling is in Spanish.

The blunder means the treats are a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy or intolerance to milk or milk constituents and/or an allergy to soya.

As these allergens and product information are both in Spanish, Tesco has had to take a batch off its shelves across England, Wales and Scotland.

Affected Viennetta Vanilla 650ml products have a Batch Code L4031BC020 and Best Before Date of January 2026.

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