Contamination Prompts Listerine Recall

4 Million Bottles Affected

McNeil-PPC, Inc., a division of Johnson & Johnson, issued a voluntary recall of all Listerine Agent Cool Blue Plaque-Detecting Rinse Products on April 11. The manufacturer claims that the preservation system used in this line of mouthwash is not as effective or as strong as it should be, making contamination by certain microorganisms possible.

The nationwide recall is effective for all lots that have ever been sold of Listerine Agent Cool Blue flavors Glacier Mint and Bubble Blast, totalling an estimated four million bottles. No other Listerine products are affected by the recall.

The company states that a study has shown the risk of using this product for the majority of individuals to be very low. Healthy individuals should not be concerned but should discontinue use of the mouthwash. The ineffective antibacterial agent of Listerine Agent Cool Blue does not protect against all microorganisms, and this could be potentially harmful to those with already weakened or suppressed immune systems.

Individuals in the higher risk category include anyone suffering from a cold or illness, elderly adults, young children, and pregnant women. No details are currently available about specific health risks associated with use of Agent Cool Blue, however there have been no reported incidents of adverse reactions related to use of the mouthwash.

McNeil-PPC, Inc. advises that consumers immediately stop using the products associated with the recall and properly dispose of remaining product. Full refunds are available by mailing in the back labels from the bottles.

Agent Cool Blue is a relatively new mouthwash that was released in 2006. It tints plaque blue so that it can easily be seen and was marketed to children to promote more thorough brushing habits. Unlike most other Listerine products, Agent Cool Blue does not contain alcohol.