Background and recall details

Who initiated the recall: The supplier, Medical Products Laboratories, Inc. of Philadelphia, voluntarily initiated the recall in mid-November 2025. The action is ongoing as of late November 2025. The affected product was distributed to Walgreens stores nationwide and sold over the counter for relief of congestion, allergies and dry nasal passages. (Audacy / KDKA, Fox Business).

Product details

The recalled item is labeled Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol, 1.5-ounce (45 mL), carrying NDC 0363-3114-01. Only two lot numbers are affected: Lot #71409 (expires 02/28/2027) and Lot #71861 (expires 08/31/2027). Consumers should locate lot and expiration information on the bottle or box to confirm whether their product is included in the recall. (Fox Business, Taunton civic alert).

Class II recall explained

Class II indicates that use of or exposure to the product could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. Serious illness or death is unlikely but possible for vulnerable people.

The Food and Drug Administration categorizes this recall as Class II — a warning that officials want consumers to stop using the product because it may cause harm in some cases. (Fox Business, Audacy / KDKA).

Contamination risk and health effects

Laboratory testing identified pseudomonas lactis, a bacterium typically associated with raw milk and agricultural settings, in the non-sterile nasal spray. Officials described the event as a microbial contamination of a non-sterile product, suggesting a lapse during manufacturing or handling. (Audacy / KDKA, Fox Business, Taunton civic alert).

Symptoms and risk groups: Healthy adults may experience mild or no symptoms. Those at higher risk include people with weakened immune systems, chronic respiratory conditions, infants, and older adults. Possible issues include localized nasal or sinus infection and, rarely, deeper respiratory infection. Seek medical care if you develop fever, increased nasal pain, worsening cough, or other concerning symptoms after using the spray. (Taunton civic alert).

What Walgreens and the supplier say

The recall was initiated by Medical Products Laboratories under FDA guidance. Walgreens is cooperating with the recall and advises customers to return affected bottles to stores for refunds. The supplier’s voluntary action seeks to remove potentially contaminated product from circulation quickly. (Audacy / KDKA, Fox Business).

How to check your product and get a refund

  • Locate lot and expiration: Check the bottle or box for lot number and expiration date. Affected lots are Lot #71409 (expires 02/28/2027) and Lot #71861 (expires 08/31/2027). (Fox Business, Taunton civic alert).
  • Stop using: If your bottle matches, discontinue use immediately.
  • Return for refund: Bring the affected bottle to any Walgreens for a full refund; store staff will assist. (See Taunton civic alert for guidance.)
  • Seek care if ill: Contact a healthcare provider if you develop symptoms after using the spray, and inform them of the exposure.

Investigative notes and context

This recall underscores how non-sterile products can still pose microbial risks if quality controls fail. Saline nasal sprays are widely used OTC items; finding pseudomonas lactis in a finished product points to a breakdown somewhere in manufacturing or handling. The voluntary recall suggests the supplier identified the issue and acted rather than waiting for enforcement. (Audacy / KDKA, Fox Business).

Implications for San Luis Obispo

Economic: Walgreens operates multiple local stores that may have received affected lots; refunds limit direct losses for shoppers and local outlets. Pharmacies and clinics could see short-term demand for alternatives.

Political and social: Local officials and public-health leaders may face questions about oversight and consumer safety; the recall could spur consumer-education efforts on OTC product safety. Vulnerable groups in the county should take extra precautions and consult local providers for alternatives.

Practical guidance for residents

  • Check bottles purchased in the past year for Lot #71409 or Lot #71861.
  • Return any affected bottle to your nearest Walgreens for a refund; staff will assist.
  • If you depend on nasal sprays for medical reasons, consult your doctor or pharmacist about safe alternatives during the recall. (Audacy / KDKA).

Documented sources

Bottom line

Check your Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol now — if it matches Lot #71409 or Lot #71861, stop using it and return the product to any Walgreens for a full refund. Those experiencing symptoms after exposure should contact a healthcare provider.