Possible Bacteria Contamination Results in the Recall of Popular Flushable Wipes

A major manufacturer of flushable wipes recently announced the recall of two of their products sold in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. Specific lots of the flushable wipes, manufactured between February 7^th and September 14^th of 2020, could show the presence of a type of bacteria known as Pluralibacter gergoviae.

The manufacturer’s recall notice states, “Pluralibacter gergoviae rarely causes serious infections in healthy individuals. However, individuals with weakened immune systems are at a heightened risk of infection.” Consumers experiencing health-related issues should immediately seek medical advice and stop using the product according to the company.

Pluralibacter gergoviae, formerly known as Enterobacter gergoviae, is a Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) that is also an opportunistic pathogen. It has been associated with antibiotic-resistant outbreaks in hospitals and has been a recurrent contaminant in cosmetics and personal care products over the years.

MPL Laboratories’ scientists can test for GNB and help manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, regulatory agencies and others identify potential bacteria that could lead to costly product recalls. MPL delivers cGMP and ISO 17025 compliant microbiology testing in its FDA and DEA registered facility.

With decades of experience, MPL’s scientists provide cost-effective solutions to identify and assist a broad range of industry challenges and concerns. Services include microbial testing of raw ingredients, finished products, production surfaces and the water used for manufacturing. They also offer antimicrobial effectiveness and sterility testing, along with the microbial examination of nonsterile products and many other forms of product testing.

To learn more about personal care, cosmetic and consumer goods product testing and development services, or other sterility and microbial services provided by MPL Laboratories, please visit www.MPLLaboratories.com, call (800) 548-1874 or email  info@MPLLaboratories.com .


About MPL Laboratories
MPL Laboratories (formerly Marypaul Laboratories) was founded in 1985 as a full service microbiology laboratory. It is ISO/IEC 17025 accredited by PJLA, FDA and DEA registered, and NJDEP certified. MPL’s staff includes M.S. and B.S. degreed microbiologists and other dedicated scientists. The microbiology testing laboratory serves the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, personal care and food industries. MPL aims to provide its clients with high quality, reliable test data in a timely manner. The laboratory is part of the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network of over 45 laboratories across the United States and Canada.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

MPL Laboratories

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail