You'll recognize the brand name, but the discovery of a rather surprising microorganism's presence led to a recall effort across the U.S.
Besides providing relief from nasal congestion caused by seasonal illnesses, saline nasal spray is a drug-free option that can also be used to help relieve congestion caused by allergies or nasal dryness caused by dry air. The saline helps moisten nasal passages, thin mucus, and clear out dust, allergens, and other irritants. It’s considered safe for both adults and children, and since it’s not medicated, it won’t cause rebound congestion or dependency.
However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is alerting the public that a certain type of nasal spray, which is sold under a popular drug store chain’s brand name, is currently under a nationwide recall due to possible bacterial contamination.
According to an FDA enforcement report released on November 21, Medical Products Laboratories, Inc., issued a voluntary recall for 41,328 total 1.5-ounce bottles of Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol on November 12 due to “microbial contamination of a non-sterile product.” Ultimately, a microorganism called Pseudomonas lactis was discovered. According to an international microorganism database, “all three original strains” of Pseudomonas lactis were isolated from bovine raw milk.
The saline nasal spray is said to have been distributed by Walgreens across the U.S. Here’s how you can identify if you have the recalled product in your medicine cabinet:
Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray WITH XYLITOL, 1.5 ounces (oz) or 45 milliliters (mL)
- Lot#: 71409, Expires: 02/28/2027
- Lot #: 71861, Expires: 08/31/2027
On November 21, the FDA categorized the recall as Class II, which indicates that use of the product could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences though “the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
As of press time, Walgreens has not posted information about the recall on its website, though the manufacturer, Medical Products Laboratories, has issued a letter to consignees, per the FDA.
For daily wellness updates, subscribe to The Healthy newsletter and follow The Healthy on Facebook and Instagram. Keep reading:
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