Zicam Nasal Product Recalled Over Fungal Contamination Risk
If you’re medicine cabinet is stocked with cold remedies, take a moment to double-check those labels. The Zicam recall of 2025 has just been announced, and it’s no minor issue.
Several over-the-counter products have been pulled from the shelves after being linked to potential fungal contamination, and the FDA is sounding the alarm, especially for households with children.
Let’s take a look at what’s going on, which products are affected, and what you should do next.
Children at Risk: Recall Alert for Contaminated Household Essential
Zicam is a go-to brand for many families, particularly during cold and flu season. But, three specific swab-based products have now been recalled by the manufacturer, Church & Dwight Co., Inc., due to concerns over fungal contamination in the cotton swabs.
Here are the products included in the fungal contamination product recall:
Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs (UPC: 732216301205)
Zicam Nasal AllClear Swabs (UPC: 732216301656 – discontinued in December 2024)
Orajel Baby Teething Swabs (UPC: 310310400002)
This recall impacts products sold in the United States and Puerto Rico. Even though no serious health events have been reported so far, officials say the risk of illness is significant and the situation is not to be taken lightly.
Why the FDA Is Especially Concerned About Children
According to the FDA recall of the Zicam nasal product, the cotton swabs may be contaminated with an unspecified type of fungus that can cause serious, even life-threatening infections, especially in young children, infants, and those with weakened immune systems.
That’s why this isn’t just a regular recall. It’s being treated as a child safety product recall, with a focus on protecting the most vulnerable members of our households.
Even something as minor as nasal irritation or a small cut inside the nose can increase the risk of infection. For the teething swabs, which are meant for babies, the stakes are even higher.
It’s a scary prospect, especially since these products are often used by parents who are trying to ease cold symptoms or teething pain.
What You Should Do If You Have These Products
If you have any of the recalled products in your home, the first step is simple: stop using them right away. The company is offering full refunds, and you can reach out to Church & Dwight’s customer service team to learn how to return the product safely.
It’s also worth giving your medicine cabinet a quick once-over. Only the three swab-based products are affected, so other Zicam and Orajel items (like gels or lozenges) have not been recalled. But, when in doubt, toss it out.
The Bigger Picture: A Reminder to Stay Alert
This life-threatening fungus recall is just the latest in a string of product safety announcements from the FDA.
Back in April, a batch of men’s vitamins was recalled after it was found to contain undeclared soy, a dangerous allergen for some. These incidents serve as a good reminder to pay attention to what’s in your medicine cabinet, especially when it comes to health products.
Whether it’s a cold remedy, a teething swab, or a daily vitamin, contamination can happen, even with trusted brands.
The Zicam Recall of 2025
The Zicam recall of 2025 might come as a surprise, especially since these products are so common. But, it’s a clear example of why it’s worth staying on top of recalls and FDA announcements.
Fungal contamination might seem like a distant concern but, for infants, young kids, and anyone with a compromised immune system, the danger is very real.
If you or someone you know has been using one of the affected products, don’t panic. Just stop using it and follow the refund process. And maybe take a few extra minutes this week to clear out any other contaminated cupboard staples you may have overlooked. Safety first, especially when little noses are involved.