The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a voluntary recall of the “Little Remedies® Honey Cough Syrup” due to microbial contamination, specifically the presence of Bacillus cereus. This bacterium can lead to foodborne illnesses, prompting health officials to urge consumers to cease use immediately. The cough syrup, primarily marketed for children, was distributed across the nation both in stores and online from December 2022 to June 2025. While no serious adverse events have been reported to date, health authorities are advising vigilance.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Details of the Recall |
| 2) Risks Associated with Bacillus cereus |
| 3) Advice for Consumers |
| 4) Manufacturer’s Response |
| 5) Contact Information for Queries |
Details of the Recall
The recall involves the “Little Remedies® Honey Cough Syrup,” identified by item number 7-56184-10737-9. The FDA announced that the manufacturer, Medtech Products Inc., took this action voluntarily after detecting Bacillus cereus, a bacterium known for contaminating food products. This cough syrup is typically packaged in a 4-fluid-ounce amber bottle and includes an outer carton. The lot codes for the affected products can be found both on the label of the bottle and at the bottom of the carton.
The specific lot numbers that are being recalled include:
- Lot # 0039 – Expiry date 11/2025
- Lot # 0545 – Expiry date 01/2026
- Lot # 0640 – Expiry date 02/2026
- Lot # 0450 – Expiry date 05/2026
- Lot # 1198 – Expiry date 12/2026
Risks Associated with Bacillus cereus
Bacillus cereus is a well-documented foodborne pathogen that can cause two distinct types of illnesses. The first type is characterized by nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, typically occurring 1 to 6 hours after consuming the contaminated item. The second type manifests as abdominal cramps and diarrhea, which can set in after 8 to 16 hours. While many healthy individuals might recover with only short-term illness, the FDA has warned that exposure to high levels of Bacillus cereus could possibly lead to severe outcomes, including death.
Its prevalence in food products makes it crucial for consumers to be aware of the symptoms and the potential dangers associated with this contamination. Parents are particularly urged to monitor their children’s health for any concerning symptoms following consumption of the affected syrup.
Advice for Consumers
The FDA has made it clear that consumers who possess the affected cough syrup should stop using it immediately. They have emphasized the importance of disposing of the product safely to prevent accidental ingestion. While there have been no reports of serious adverse events linked to the contaminated syrup as of now, it is imperative for parents and guardians to remain vigilant.
For those individuals who feel they may have experienced health issues following the use of this product, health professionals suggest reaching out to a healthcare provider. Early medical intervention can help mitigate any potential health risks associated with exposure to contaminated food products.
Manufacturer’s Response
Medtech Products Inc. has taken the recall seriously and has pledged to cooperate with health authorities and the FDA during this process. The company’s decision to voluntarily recall the cough syrup reflects a commitment to consumer safety and transparency. Inquiries and concerns from consumers have been met with quick responses, focusing on the importance of public health.
Officials at Medtech are working to investigate the source of contamination and ensure that similar issues do not arise in the future. Their proactive approach aims to restore consumer confidence in their products while emphasizing rigorous quality controls moving forward.
Contact Information for Queries
Consumers with questions regarding the recall or who wish to seek refunds can contact Medtech Products through various means. Emails can be directed to medicalaffairs@prestigebrands.com, while additional contact details can be found on the company’s official website. Additionally, Medtech can be reached via phone at (800) 754-8853. The company has encouraged anyone facing issues to reach out for assistance promptly.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | The recall was initiated due to the detection of Bacillus cereus in the cough syrup. |
| 2 | Affected lots include several expiration dates ranging from 2025 to 2026. |
| 3 | Bacillus cereus can cause serious foodborne illnesses. |
| 4 | Consumers are advised to stop using the product immediately and dispose of it safely. |
| 5 | Medtech Products is cooperating fully with the FDA and addressing consumer concerns. |
Summary
The recall of “Little Remedies® Honey Cough Syrup” underscores significant health concerns linked to microbial contamination. While no serious health issues have yet been reported, the potential risks associated with Bacillus cereus highlight the importance of consumer vigilance and prompt action. The proactive steps taken by Medtech Products Inc. and the FDA aim to protect public health and ensure that similar contaminations are prevented in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What should consumers do if they have the recalled product?
Consumers should stop using the “Little Remedies® Honey Cough Syrup” immediately and dispose of it safely. They are encouraged to monitor for any potential symptoms and contact their healthcare provider if they experience issues.
Question: What are the symptoms of foodborne illnesses caused by Bacillus cereus?
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, which can start 1 to 6 hours after consuming contaminated items. Another type of illness may cause diarrhea and cramps, occurring 8 to 16 hours later.
Question: How can consumers contact the manufacturer regarding the recall?
Consumers can reach Medtech Products via email at medicalaffairs@prestigebrands.com, call them at (800) 754-8853, or visit their website for more information.
