Summary (tl;dr)

PepsiCo has recalled over 122,000 cases of Gatorade sports drinks across 37 U.S. states because the products contain undeclared artificial food dyes, Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 6.

Essential Background

All food products sold in the U.S. are legally required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to list all ingredients, including color additives, on their labels. This ensures consumers are fully informed, especially those who may have sensitivities or allergies. Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 6 are artificial colorings that, while generally safe, must be declared due to the potential for hypersensitivity reactions in some individuals.

The Full Story

On September 25, 2026, PepsiCo voluntarily initiated a recall affecting approximately 122,021 cases of 28-ounce Gatorade Lemon Lime, Gatorade Lemon Lime Zero, Gatorade Orange, and Gatorade Orange Zero. The recall was prompted by the discovery that these products contained Yellow No. 5 and/or Yellow No. 6 dyes that were not listed on the ingredient labels. The FDA classified this as a Class II recall on October 2, 2026, which signifies that consuming or being exposed to the product may lead to temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, though serious harm is considered remote. The affected Gatorade cases were distributed across 37 states, with products carrying expiration dates ranging from April 2027 to June 2027.

Why It Matters

This recall underscores the critical importance of accurate product labeling for public health and consumer trust. While the health risks associated with the undeclared dyes are generally considered low, the lack of transparency is particularly concerning for individuals with pre-existing sensitivities or allergies to these specific additives, such as those with aspirin sensitivities, who might experience reactions like itching or hives. Consumers are advised to check the lot numbers and expiration dates of their Gatorade products against the official FDA recall notice.

Geographic Location

• United States (nationwide recall of Gatorade products across 37 states)