Scent Theory Hand Soap Recalled Over Possible Bacterial Contamination

A common foaming hand soap is being recalled due to fears it may be contaminated with bacteria that can cause respiratory infections. 

Scent Theory has issued a voluntary recall of four varieties of its 11 ounce Foaming Hand Soap Made With Essential Oils, which it said may be contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia. 

The recall affects the Lemon Citrus, Vanilla Coconut, Eucalyptus Mint, and Fresh Lavender varieties of the soap, according to the FDA. At least 636,000 of the pump bottle-soaps are being recalled, though it was unclear whether that number was per variety, or overall.

While the product recall was posted to the FDA website Feb. 11th, the recall was initiated Jan. 7, according to the posting. The soap is commonly sold at Walmarts across the country and in Puerto Rico, and online.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Burkholderia cepacia — or B. cepacia — is a group of bacteria that can be found in soil and water and are often resistant to common antibiotics.

The bacteria poses little risk to healthy people. However, people who have weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases, particularly cystic fibrosis, may be more susceptible to B. cepacia infections.

B. cepacia is a known cause of infections in hospitalized patients, and can cause serious respiratory infections, the CDC said.

Scent Theory distributes soaps and hand sanitizers, and is based in New York City. The recalled product is made in China. If you have this product in your bathroom, don’t use it, and instead reach out to the company for a refund.

In July 2020, Scent Theory was a part of a large recall of over 75 hand sanitizer brands. In that case, the sanitizers were recalled due to the potential presence of methanol – a toxic and potentially lethal substance.

Meanwhile, soap is not immune from being the subject of class action claims. 

In June 2019, a $7.4 million settlement was granted approval to resolve claims regarding Dial soap’s advertising statements of being “99.99 percent” effective at germ killing.

Consumers representing California, Florida, and New York claimed that Dial made false claims about their products’ ability to kill germs.

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