Thousands of FDA regulated items are being recalled and pulled from shelves after federal regulators discovered rodent and bird feces at a regional distribution warehouse in Minneapolis.
Among the items are everyday staples including Cheerios and Pringles, as well as specialty items like Nutella, and even over-the-counter pain relievers and dog food.
Because the warehouse handles a wide range of FDA-regulated goods, officials moved to pull products from shelves that may have been exposed to the “unsanitary conditions” during storage — even if they were manufactured safely elsewhere.
The FDA classified the recall as Class II — meaning affected items can pose temporary or medically reversible health risks.
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Affected products were sold across Minnesota, North Dakota and Indiana.
Hundreds of popular brands are included in the recall, which covers food, beverages, medicine, personal care items and pet products.
Among the most recognizable names listed are Cheerios, Pringles, Rice Krispies, Special K and Frosted Flakes.
Snacks like Skittles, Jolly Ranchers and Takis are included in the recall.
Several high-profile beverage brands are also included, such as Diet Coke, Coca-Cola and Gatorade.
The FDA says the action was taken because items were stored at a facility where contamination was observed — not because the products were manufactured in a contaminated space.
Consumers in states where affected products were sold are urged to check product labels and UPC codes against the agency’s official recall list.
While no confirmed illnesses have been reported relating to this recall, the FDA warns exposure to rodent or bird waste can carry bacteria such as salmonella.
The FDA advises consumers not to eat or use any recalled products, to destroy them and to take a photo to share with Gold Star if they plan on requesting a refund.
Pet owners are also encouraged to monitor animals closely and contact a veterinarian if a recalled pet product was consumed.
For the full list of affected products, including specific brands, sizes and UPC codes, consumers can visit the FDA’s official recall notice and product list on FDA.gov.
