Comprehensive Guide to the 2023 Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner Recall
Spot affected bottle codes effortlessly and claim a refund or replacement.
2023 Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner Recall: What Consumers Need to Know
In February 2023, Colgate-Palmolive, the parent company of Fabuloso, announced a large-scale recall of certain Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaners due to contamination with potentially harmful bacteria. This article provides a comprehensive, up-to-date guide on the recall, including affected products, the risks associated with the contamination, instructions for consumers, and frequently asked questions.
Background: Why Was Fabuloso Recalled?
On February 8, 2023, Colgate-Palmolive initiated the recall of nearly 4.9 million bottles of its Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaners after discovering that some batches were contaminated with Pseudomonas species bacteria, most notably Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas fluorescens. These bacteria are commonly found in soil and water, but when present in household cleaning products, they can pose significant health risks, especially for certain vulnerable groups.
The contamination was due to a manufacturing lapse in which a necessary preservative was not added at the intended levels. This allowed the bacteria to survive and proliferate in the cleaning solution.
Which Fabuloso Products Were Affected?
The recall specifically targets select Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner liquids manufactured from December 14, 2022, through January 23, 2023. Approximately 4.9 million bottles were produced during this period. However, officials noted that about 80% of these bottles (3.9 million) were never released for sale; the remaining were sold via various retailers.
- Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaners in Lavender Scent
- Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaners in Refreshing Lemon Scent
- Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner Bleach Alternative – Spring Fresh Scent
- Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaners in Passion of Fruits Scent
- Fabuloso Professional All Purpose Cleaner & Degreaser – Ocean Scent
Fabuloso Antibacterial variants and select other formulas are not included in the recall.
Affected Bottle Sizes & Formulas
| Variant/Scent | Sizes Recalled | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lavender Scent | 22 FL OZ, 56 FL OZ, 128 FL OZ, 169 FL OZ, 210 FL OZ, 1 GALLON | Includes Professional formulas |
| Refreshing Lemon Scent | 22 FL OZ, 33.8 FL OZ, 56 FL OZ, 128 FL OZ, 169 FL OZ | — |
| Spring Fresh Scent (Bleach Alternative) | 56 FL OZ | 2X Concentrated |
| Passion of Fruits Scent | 33.8 FL OZ, 56 FL OZ, 128 FL OZ, 169 FL OZ | 2X Concentrated |
| Ocean Scent (Professional) | 1 GALLON | Professional cleaner |
For a full breakdown of affected UPCs and lot codes, refer to the official Fabuloso recall website or check the packaging for the lot codes listed below.
How to Identify Recalled Bottles
The recall involves bottles with the following lot codes (found on the back of the bottle above the label or near the top):
What others are reading
- 2348US78 through 2365US78
- 3001US78 through 3023US78
If your product’s lot code falls within these ranges, it is part of the recall.
Where Were the Recalled Products Sold?
Recalled Fabuloso cleaners were available at major retailers nationwide, both in stores and online, including:
- Amazon
- Sam’s Club
- Walmart
- The Home Depot
- Dollar General
- Family Dollar
- Target
- Other retail outlets and e-commerce platforms
The affected items were distributed between December 2022 and January 2023.
The Health Risks: What Dangers Do the Bacteria Pose?
Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas fluorescens are opportunistic bacteria that can cause infections, particularly in people with:
- Weakened immune systems
- Pre-existing lung conditions
- External medical devices (such as catheters, IVs)
Exposure to the bacteria can occur via:
- Inhalation of aerosolized cleaner
- Contact with eyes
- Broken skin
Potential symptoms and complications for at-risk individuals include:
- Respiratory illnesses
- Sepsis or bloodstream infections
- Urinary tract or skin infections
- Other life-threatening complications requiring medical intervention
For people with healthy immune systems, incidental exposure is unlikely to cause illness. No illnesses had been officially reported as of the recall date, but federal health officials urged caution and proactive product disposal.
Instructions for Consumers: What Should You Do?
- Stop using any affected Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner immediately.
- Identify your lot code on the back or top of the bottle. Confirm if it falls under the recall range.
- Take clear photos of the UPC and lot code on your product for your refund claim.
- Do not empty the bottle; instead, dispose of it with its contents into your regular household trash.
- Visit fabulosorecall.com to fill out the consumer recall form and submit your photos for reimbursement or a replacement.
Colgate-Palmolive has assured full refunds or replacement products for affected customers once the claim form is submitted.
Safety and Disposal Tips
- Keep recalled products out of reach of children and pets until disposal
- Do not attempt to recycle or pour out the contents prior to disposal
- Wash hands thoroughly if you have handled any recalled cleaner
- Contact a healthcare professional immediately if you develop symptoms after exposure
Company Response and Quality Control
Colgate-Palmolive acknowledged the issue arose from the omission of a preservative during a specific production timeframe. The company has committed to stricter safety protocols and quality checks in the wake of the recall, emphasizing its “commitment to quality and consumer safety.”
Are Fabuloso Products Still Safe to Use?
- Only the specific multi-purpose cleaning liquid batches listed above are impacted.
- Fabuloso Antibacterial and other variants, including certain scents and formulas not listed, remain safe for household use.
- Consumers should always check the lot code before use when there is a recall event.
What to Know If You Are at Higher Risk
Those with compromised immune systems, chronic lung diseases, or those utilizing medical devices should seek prompt medical attention if they experience infection symptoms following any possible exposure to the recalled product. Early medical intervention is critical.
Consumer Rights: Refunds, Replacements, and Claims
Colgate-Palmolive offers a simple process for:
- Full refund for returned or properly disposed products
- Free replacement product upon request
Keep photo documentation of your product, including the lot code and UPC. The claim can be submitted online (fabulosorecall.com), and consumers should not attempt to return the product to the place of purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions: Fabuloso Recall FAQ
Q: What caused the contamination in the recalled Fabuloso cleaners?
A: A manufacturing error led to insufficient preservative being added to certain batches, allowing Pseudomonas bacteria to survive and multiply in the product.
Q: What health risks are associated with the contamination?
A: People with weakened immune systems, underlying lung conditions, or medical devices can develop serious infections, potentially requiring medical treatment or hospitalization. Healthy individuals are generally not affected.
Q: Are all Fabuloso products affected?
A: No. Only specific multi-purpose liquid cleaners with particular lot codes produced between December 14, 2022, and January 23, 2023 are part of the recall. Fabuloso Antibacterial and some other variants are not included.
Q: How can I check if my Fabuloso is included in the recall?
A: Check the lot code above the label on your bottle. Compare it with the recall ranges (2348US78 to 2365US78 or 3001US78 to 3023US78). If it matches, your cleaner has been recalled.
Q: What is the refund or replacement process?
A: Take a photo of the affected product’s UPC and lot code, dispose of the bottle (do not empty it), and submit the required documentation through the official fabulosorecall.com website. Colgate-Palmolive will provide a refund or replacement product.
Q: Can I continue to use the unaffected Fabuloso products?
A: Yes. Only those products and lot codes specified in the recall are unsafe. All other Fabuloso cleaners remain safe for use if not included in the recall.
Q: Have any illnesses been reported due to this contamination?
A: As of the recall announcement, no illnesses had been reported. The recall is a proactive measure to protect consumers.
Key Takeaways and Consumer Protection Tips
- Always check for recall announcements from trusted authorities such as the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
- Register for safety alerts from brands you use regularly to stay informed about recalls and product updates.
- Practice proper cleaning and hygiene even with recalled products — if you come into contact, wash immediately and consult a healthcare provider if you are at risk or show symptoms.
Resources
- Official Fabuloso Recall Website: Check specific lot codes and UPCs
- Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): Recall news and updates
- Contact Colgate-Palmolive for questions about the recall or to file a claim
Stay vigilant and share this information with family and friends to help prevent health risks and ensure safe use of household cleaning products.
References
- https://www.lezdotechmed.com/blog/fabuloso-lawsuit-on-bacterial-infection/
- https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Colgate-Palmolive-Recalls-Fabuloso-Multi-Purpose-Cleaners-Due-to-Risk-of-Exposure-to-Bacteria
- https://help.target.com/help/TargetGuestHelpPRArticleDetail?articleId=ka95d000000saWLAAY&articleTitle=Colgate-Palmolive+Fabuloso+Multi-Purpose+Cleaners
- https://www.fabuloso.com/recall
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9MuXX4zWaQw
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