Consumers across Mississippi should check their refrigerators after PepsiCo initiated a recall for specific 28‑ounce bottles of Gatorade that were distributed to stores in the state, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reported. The recall, which affects more than 120,000 cases, was first announced Sept. 25 and later classified as a Class II recall by the FDA on Oct. 2.
What was recalled
The affected products are 28‑ounce bottles of these Gatorade flavors:
- Lemon Lime
- Lemon Lime Zero
- Orange
- Orange Zero
PepsiCo says the bottles may contain undeclared food colorings — specifically Yellow No. 5 and/or Yellow No. 6 — which are not listed on some product labels. The presence of unlisted dyes prompted the FDA enforcement action because they can pose health risks to people with sensitivities or allergies.
FDA classification and health guidance
“A violative product could cause temporary or reversible adverse health problems, but serious health concerns are unlikely for most people.”
The FDA’s Class II designation indicates the agency believes exposure could produce temporary or reversible effects in sensitive individuals. For most consumers, the agency said, serious reactions are unlikely. However, those with known sensitivities to food dyes should avoid the affected bottles and contact a medical professional if they experience symptoms after consuming the product.
How to check your bottles
Consumers should look at the bottle size (28 oz.), flavor and the lot number/expiration date printed on the packaging. The FDA’s enforcement report lists multiple lot numbers and expiration dates tied to the recall. Examples from that list include:
| Lot number | Expiration date |
|---|---|
| 091026 DL | JUN 07 27 |
| 091126 DL | JUN 08 27 |
| 072226 DT | APR 18 27 |
| 072426 TL | APR 20 27 |
| 073126 TL | APR 27 27 |
That table shows a sampling of the lot/expiration combinations included in the FDA report. Consumers should consult the full enforcement notice or contact the retailer or PepsiCo for a comprehensive list before discarding or returning products.
Where the recalled drinks were sold
The recalled 28‑ounce Gatorade was distributed to retailers in 37 states, including Mississippi. The multi‑state distribution means shoppers statewide could encounter these products at supermarkets, convenience stores and other outlets that carry bottled sports drinks.
If you believe you purchased an affected bottle, do not consume it if you have a known sensitivity to Yellow No. 5 or Yellow No. 6. For any adverse reaction after drinking the product, seek medical attention and report the event to your healthcare provider and the FDA’s MedWatch program.
For more details about lot numbers, where the products were sold and guidance on returns or refunds, check the FDA’s enforcement report or reach out to PepsiCo customer service. Local retailers may also post recall notices at store locations and on their websites.
This recall underscores the importance of reading ingredient labels and checking lot information on packaged foods — particularly if you or family members have known allergies or sensitivities.
