Health Canada Recalls Oribe Serene Scalp Shampoo Over Bacteria Risk

Health Canada has issued a recall for Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo, distributed by Kao Canada Inc., after testing revealed the presence of bacterial contamination in certain lots of the product. The affected shampoo is sold at the retail level across Canada, and the recall has been classified as a Type II health hazard.

What Products Are Being Recalled?

The recall covers ‘Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo’ manufactured and distributed by Kao Canada Inc. The product has no market authorization number and is sold in shampoo dosage form. Three specific lot numbers are affected: YR010556, YR010566, and YR010576. Consumers should check their product packaging against these lot numbers to determine if their bottle is part of the recall.

Why Was This Recall Issued?

According to Health Canada, the affected lots may contain bacterial contamination identified as Pluralibacter gergoviae. This type of bacteria can pose health risks, particularly for individuals with compromised skin barriers, scalp irritation, or weakened immune systems, potentially leading to infection or other adverse reactions when applied to the scalp.

Who Is Affected?

The recall affects consumers across Canada who have purchased Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo from retailers carrying the affected lot numbers. The recall’s depth has been listed as reaching the retail level, meaning bottles may still be present on store shelves as well as in consumers’ homes.

What Should You Do?

• Check your bottle of Oribe Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo for lot numbers YR010556, YR010566, or YR010576.
• Consult your healthcare provider before discontinuing use of the affected product, or if you have any health concerns related to its use.
• Contact Kao Canada Inc. directly with any questions regarding the recall.
• Report any side effects linked to the product to Health Canada through its MedEffect adverse reaction reporting program.
• Report any other safety complaints related to the product through Health Canada’s online complaint system.

Official Statement

Health Canada states that affected lots ‘may contain the presence of bacterial contamination (pluralibacter gergoviae)’ and advises consumers to verify whether their product is included in the recall before taking any action. The agency has published the alert as a Health products – Natural health products recall, with an identification number of RA-82326, and lists Kao Canada Inc., based in Toronto, Ontario, as the responsible company.