Urgent Recall of Pilgrim Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner Due to Banned Chemical

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued an urgent recall of the Pilgrim Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner set due to the presence of zinc pyrithione, a banned cosmetic ingredient in the UK. The products, sold on Amazon, were removed from the marketplace after the hazardous ingredient was identified.

‘Serious chemical risk’ prompts shampoo safety recall

Zinc pyrithione is commonly used outside the EU and UK as an antimicrobial and anti-fungal agent, particularly in dandruff treatments. However, it has been classified as unsafe for cosmetic use within the UK due to concerns regarding its potential risks to reproduction, fertility, and DNA integrity, as indicated by laboratory studies. The OPSS's action reflects ongoing efforts to ensure consumer safety and compliance with cosmetic regulations.

‘Serious chemical risk’ prompts shampoo safety recall

The OPSS is responsible for overseeing product safety in the UK, aiming to protect consumers from harmful products. Their recent findings regarding the Pilgrim products highlight their role in enforcing safety standards and ensuring that businesses adhere to regulations.

‘Serious chemical risk’ prompts shampoo safety recall

The OPSS stated, “The product presents a serious chemical risk as the ingredients list indicates it contains zinc pyrithione, which is prohibited for use in cosmetic products.” They also noted that the shampoo and conditioner set contains undeclared allergens, including hydroxycitronellal, hexyl cinnamal, and limonene, which could pose allergy risks to sensitive consumers.

‘Serious chemical risk’ prompts shampoo safety recall

Consumer advocates have raised concerns about the implications of such recalls, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and better labeling practices in the cosmetic industry. The presence of undeclared allergens in the recalled products has particularly alarmed health advocates, who argue that consumers should be fully informed about the ingredients they are using.

‘Serious chemical risk’ prompts shampoo safety recall

While the OPSS has confirmed the recall and the reasons behind it, there is limited information regarding the extent of distribution of the affected products and whether any adverse reactions have been reported among consumers. Additionally, it remains unclear how many units were sold before the recall was initiated.

‘Serious chemical risk’ prompts shampoo safety recall

“The product presents a serious chemical risk as the ingredients list indicates it contains zinc pyrithione, which is prohibited for use in cosmetic products.” — Office for Product Safety and Standards

‘Serious chemical risk’ prompts shampoo safety recall

“This could lead to consumers with sensitivities using these products and having an allergic reaction.” — Office for Product Safety and Standards

‘Serious chemical risk’ prompts shampoo safety recall

Following this incident, the OPSS may implement further measures to enhance monitoring of cosmetic products in the market, aiming to prevent similar occurrences and ensure consumer safety.

‘Serious chemical risk’ prompts shampoo safety recall