FDA Issues Recall for Nearly 2,000 Products Due to Contamination

Jan 30, 2026, 2:52 AM

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The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall affecting nearly 2,000 products across Indiana, Minnesota, and North Dakota due to contamination from rodent and bird waste. The recall was initiated by Gold Star Distribution, Inc following inspections that revealed unsanitary conditions at a facility where these products were stored.

The recalled items span a wide range of categories, including food, cosmetics, dietary supplements, and medications. Notably, major brands such as Cheerios, Coca-Cola, Hershey's, and Tylenol are among those affected. The presence of rodent excreta, urine, and bird droppings in the storage areas raises significant health concerns, particularly the risk of bacterial contamination, including Salmonella.

Health Risks and Consumer Guidance

The FDA has classified this recall as a Class II risk, indicating that while the potential health effects are temporary or reversible, there is still a possibility of serious consequences. While no illnesses have been reported to date, the FDA warns that exposure to contaminated products can lead to serious health issues, especially for vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of Salmonella infection may include fever, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, with severe cases potentially leading to more serious complications.

Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products are advised to destroy them immediately and not to return them to the retailer. Gold Star will provide refunds upon request, and consumers can contact the company at 612-617-9800 for more information. Additionally, those experiencing health issues related to the consumption of these products are encouraged to seek medical attention.

Overview of Affected Products

The full list of recalled items includes a variety of popular products such as:.

Beverages: Diet Coke, Sprite, Gatorade, and Mountain Dew.

Snacks: Pringles, Skittles, and Takis.

Medications: Tylenol, Advil, and Benadryl.

Cosmetics: Brands like Colgate and Dove.

Pet foods: Purina and Fancy Feast.

The FDA has made available a comprehensive list of the affected products on its website, along with the specific retailers where these items were sold.

Conclusion

This recall serves as a serious reminder for consumers to be vigilant about the products they purchase, especially those from facilities that may not adhere to proper sanitary guidelines. The FDA continues to monitor the situation, and consumers are encouraged to report any adverse reactions associated with the recalled products through the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program.

For more information regarding the recall and safety alerts, individuals can visit the FDA's official website or contact Gold Star Distribution directly.

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