Procter & Gamble is recalling millions of bags of laundry detergent pods over defective and potentially dangerous packaging.
The consumer goods corporation is recalling 8.2 million bags in the United States across several brands: Tide Pods, Gain Flings, Ace Pods, and Ariel Pods. The defective bags can split open and “may be difficult to close” because of a “manufacturing issue,” raising the risk of ingestion by children.
The recall impacts detergent manufactured between September 2023 and February 2024, reported WFAA. The defective products were sold at Walmart, Target, CVS, Family Dollar, Amazon, and other retailers for between $5 for a small bag and $30 for a box of four 39-count bags, reported Forbes.
The chemicals contained in the pods can result in coma, severe breathing impairment, burns, seizures, and eye damage. According to reports obtained by Procter & Gamble, four children have accessed the detergent within the pods, while three have ingested it, per Forbes. No injuries or deaths have been reported.
“Since these packages did not meet our high standards, we have issued a voluntary recall in partnership with the [Consumer Products Safety Commission] and have decided to offer replacement packaging as well as a prepaid debit card for the value of your purchase price,” reads a statement from the P&G website.
This is not the first time these products have come under scrutiny. In 2012, Procter & Gamble committed to adding a safety latch to its detergent pods following the hospitalization of a child. The company now recommends that customers transfer their defective products into a Tide PODS or Gain Flings tub with a child-resistant closure.
Consumers without a child-resistant container can request one through P&G’s Consumer Care Team. Details about the recall and information about replacing defective packaging can be found here.
