PepsiCo Recalled Over 122,000 Cases of Gatorade

The recall involves specific 28 oz. Gatorade flavors distributed across 37 states.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Nutrition

Isometric editorial illustration of a single plastic bottle filled with yellow liquid, representing an FDA-mandated product recall. — PepsiCo has recalled over 122,000 cases of Gatorade across the United States after discovering undeclared food dyes in specific 28-ounce bottles. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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PepsiCo has voluntarily recalled 122,021 cases of Gatorade sports drinks due to the inclusion of undeclared artificial food dyes. The FDA has categorized the action as a Class II recall, affecting specific flavors distributed nationwide.

Why it matters

The presence of undeclared Yellow No. 5 or Yellow No. 6 dyes poses potential health risks to consumers with specific dye sensitivities or allergies. Accurate labeling is a critical component of food safety regulations intended to inform consumers about ingredients.

The recall encompasses 28 oz. bottles of Lemon Lime, Lemon Lime Zero, Orange, and Orange Zero flavors. These products were shipped across 37 states before the voluntary recall process began.

The players

PepsiCo

Headquartered in Purchase, New York, this multinational food and beverage corporation produces the Gatorade brand.

Food and Drug Administration

This federal agency is responsible for protecting public health by ensuring the safety and labeling of food products sold in the United States.

The details

The impacted Gatorade products contain Yellow No. 5 or Yellow No. 6 dyes that were omitted from the ingredient labels. Customers are encouraged to verify the safety of their beverages by inspecting lot codes found on the sides or bottoms of the 28 oz. bottles.

PepsiCo voluntarily initiated the product recall on September 25, 2026.
The FDA officially classified the recall as a Class II action on October 2, 2026.
News regarding the safety recall was publicly released on October 5, 2026.

Health Landscape

This recall underscores the rigorous enforcement of the FDA Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act labeling requirements for major beverage manufacturers. It highlights the systemic importance of accurate ingredient transparency in the modern consumer health landscape.

Consumers who possess the specified flavors in 28 oz. bottles should check their lot codes to determine if their products are included in the recall. Individuals with known sensitivities to yellow food dyes should avoid consuming these specific batches to prevent potential reactions.

The takeaway

Maintaining awareness of public recall notices is a simple but effective strategy for managing individual health risks. Checking product labels and monitoring company alerts helps consumers avoid ingredients that may trigger personal allergic or sensitivities.