The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall of Jergens Ultra Healing Moisturizer due to the possibility of the cream being contaminated with a bacterium. 

Kao USA has said that some of the bottles of the moisturizer may contain Pluralibacter gergoviae, a bacterium that doesn’t make healthy people sick but could pose a risk to those with a weakened immune system. 

Symptoms of Pluralibacter gergoviae infection include weakness, respiratory problems, fever, vomiting, and nausea. The company further announced that bottles being recalled had been manufactured between October 1 and October 18, were all three or ten ounces, and have lot codes starting with ZU. These include ZU712851, ZU712871, ZU712911, ZU722881, ZU712861, ZU712881, ZU722851, ZU722741, ZU722781, ZU732791, ZU732811, ZU722771, ZU732781, ZU732801 and ZU732821.

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Those with the product can call or email Kao and will get a coupon for a free replacement bottle. They’ll also receive a bag and postage-paid envelope to return the said item. 

What is Jergens Ultra Healing Moisturizer?

According to the official website, the Jergens Ultra Healing Moisturizer “repairs, heals, and deeply nourishes extra dry skin to reveal visibly luminous healthier skin“. 

The lotion reportedly contains Vitamins C, E, and B5. Jergens recommends users with extra dry skin should use the lotion, which can be applied to knees, elbows, and heels

According to Jergens, the moisturizer can penetrate through five layers of the skin’s surface, and locks in moisture for up to 48 hours. 

What is Jergens?

Jergens, founded in 1901, is a skincare brand that puts emphasis on moisture. It is owned by the Kao Corporation, with the acquisition taking place in 1988.

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Kao is a Japanese cosmetic and chemical company established in 1887. Based out of Nihonbashi-Kayabacho in Tokyo, Kao was initially launched as a soap manufacturer by Tomiro Nagase.