PepsiCo Pulls 122,000 Gatorade Cases Nationwide Over Undeclared Dyes

Key points

• The recall covers 28-ounce bottles of Gatorade Lemon Lime, Lemon Lime Zero, Orange, and Orange Zero.
• The issue stems from the presence of undeclared Yellow No. 5 and/or Yellow No. 6 color additives.
• PepsiCo initiated the recall on September 25, 2026, and the FDA updated its severity to Class II on October 2, 2026.
• Affected products were distributed in 37 states, including California, Texas, New York, and Florida.
• Specific lot dates range from April 2027 to June 2027, as identified in FDA enforcement reports.

Background

This incident follows a series of significant food safety recalls in 2026, including a Class I recall for 167,000 pounds of uninspected meat in late September and a tofu recall for ink contamination in August. These events highlight ongoing scrutiny of supply chain integrity and labeling accuracy in the food industry.

How outlets are covering it

All four sources—CBS News, ABC News, TODAY.com, and USA Today—report consistent facts regarding the volume of recalled cases, the specific flavors affected, and the geographic scope. ABC News and TODAY.com emphasize the potential health risks, noting that while reactions are uncommon, they may cause mild rashes or asthma-like symptoms in individuals sensitive to aspirin or these dyes. CBS News notes that PepsiCo has not yet confirmed whether refunds will be issued, a detail also highlighted by USA Today. The outlets agree that the FDA’s Class II classification signifies a lower risk profile compared to Class I recalls, but still warrants consumer caution.

Why it matters

Consumers should check their pantry for the specific lot codes and dates listed by the FDA. While the health risks are generally low for the average person, individuals with known allergies to Yellow No. 5 or Yellow No. 6 should avoid the product entirely. This recall underscores the importance of accurate labeling for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

What to watch

Consumers are advised to discard or return the affected products. PepsiCo is expected to provide further guidance on refund procedures or replacement products. The FDA will continue to monitor the recall to ensure compliance and prevent further distribution of the affected lots.