The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a voluntary recall affecting more than 122,000 cases of Gatorade distributed across 37 states. The federal agency officially classified the action as a Class II recall on October 2, 2026, following its initial launch on September 25.
Affected Gatorade Flavors and Lot Details
The nationwide recall involves popular 28-ounce bottles of sports drinks. Consumers and retailers should check their inventory for the following specific flavors:
- Lemon Lime
- Lemon Lime Zero
- Orange
- Orange Zero
According to official regulatory notices, the affected beverages contain Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 6 colorings that were accidentally omitted from the official packaging ingredient lists. While undeclared food dyes generally pose minimal risk to the general public, they can trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities in individuals who experience adverse effects from specific synthetic color additives.
Distribution and Expiration Information
The recalled products were shipped to commercial distributors and retailers across 37 states, spanning regions from the West Coast to other parts of the country. Notably, states like Washington, Idaho, and California received shipments, while neighboring Oregon was excluded from direct distribution lists.
Shoppers checking home pantries, gym bags, or retail stock should examine 28-ounce bottles carrying lot dates corresponding to:
- April 2027
- May 2027
- June 2027
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers who possess the affected Lemon Lime, Lemon Lime Zero, Orange, or Orange Zero 28-ounce bottles with the specified expiration lot dates are advised not to consume them, particularly if they have known sensitivities to Yellow No. 5 or Yellow No. 6 food colorings. Customers can return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund or contact the manufacturer’s consumer hotline for further guidance regarding product returns and safety inquiries.
The FDA continues to monitor the voluntary recall to ensure all impacted merchandise is successfully removed from active commercial distribution chains.
