Walgreens Nasal Spray Recalled Over Potential Bacterial Contamination, FDA Reports
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A U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sign outside the agency's White Oak campus in Silver Spring, Md., on July 17, 2025. (Issam Ahmed/AFP via Getty Images)
By Jack Phillips
11/28/2025Updated: 11/28/2025

More than 41,000 bottles of a brand of nasal spray were recalled nationwide as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) upgraded the recall classification last week.

In a notice published on Nov. 21, the FDA said that 41,328 bottles of Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray With Xylitol in 1.5-ounce varieties are being recalled.

The reason for the recall was given as “microbial contamination of a non-sterile product,” and the microorganism was found to be Pseudomonas lactis, a type of bacteria. Philadelphia-based Medical Products Laboratories initiated the recall.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pseudomonas is a group of bacteria commonly found in the environment, including water and soil.

Taunton, Massachusetts, posted the recall on its website, including a civic alert that Pseudomonas lactis may be harmful to people who have weakened immune systems or respiratory issues.

It’s not clear whether there were any reported illnesses or adverse health issues in connection with the product recall. The Epoch Times contacted Walgreens for comment.

A Walgreens spokesperson told media outlets this week: “Under the guidance of the FDA, our supplier has initiated a voluntary recall of Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray WITH XYLITOL. This was done out of an abundance of caution and the safety of our customers remains our top priority. Consumers with affected product should not use it and return it to a store for a full refund.”

The recalled products include the lot number of 71409 and an expiration date of Feb. 28, 2027; and a lot number of 71861 and an expiration date of Aug. 31, 2027, according to the FDA. The recall, which impacts products sold nationwide, has a number of D-0179-2026, the FDA notice said.

The federal health agency also classified the recall as Class II, meaning that use of the product could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health problems or that the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.

Nasal sprays are commonly used to relieve congestion during cold and influenza season, say health officials.

In an update issued on Nov. 21, the CDC said respiratory illnesses that cause people to seek medical care across the United States are currently “at a low level.” That includes influenza, RSV, and COVID-19.

“Seasonal influenza activity remains low nationally but is increasing,” the agency said, adding that COVID-19 levels are currently “very low” and are decreasing. RSV levels are considered low but increasing, the agency said.

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Jack Phillips is a breaking news reporter who covers a range of topics, including politics, U.S., and health news. A father of two, Jack grew up in California's Central Valley. Follow him on X: https://twitter.com/jackphillips5

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