PepsiCo has pulled more than 122,000 cases of Gatorade off shelves across 37 states after discovering the drinks contained synthetic food dyes that were never listed on the label. The recall covers 28-ounce bottles of four flavors, Lemon Lime, Lemon Lime Zero, Orange, and Orange Zero, all of which were found to contain undeclared Yellow No. 5 and/or Yellow No. 6. PepsiCo voluntarily launched the recall on September 25, and the FDA classified it as a Class II recall on October 2, a designation meaning the chance of serious health effects is remote but not impossible. So far, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the affected products.

While both dyes are approved for use in food by the FDA, federal rules require them to be clearly listed on packaging, and the agency says exposure in sensitive individuals can trigger issues ranging from mild skin rashes to allergic-type asthma symptoms, particularly in people with aspirin sensitivities. The recalled bottles carry specific lot codes dated between April and June of 2027, so anyone with Gatorade in those flavors at home is encouraged to check the packaging against the FDA's recall notice. PepsiCo has not said publicly how the labeling error happened in the first place. For now, the recall remains active, and consumers in the affected states are being urged to check their bottles before drinking.