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24.06.2025 - Cosmetics

June 24, 2025 - Public recall of a cosmetic product due to contamination with Candida parapsilosis

On June 17, 2025, a hand serum from a major drugstore chain was recalled via the national recall portal. As part of in-house controls, a microbiological contamination with the yeast fungus Candida parapsilosis was identified. The company stated that the health risk for healthy consumers is considered low. However, infections cannot be ruled out for immunocompromised individuals, especially when in contact with injured skin.

Although Candida parapsilosis is a microorganism that can naturally occur on skin and mucous membranes, it has no place in cosmetic products. Its presence indicates insufficient microbiological stability or a potential weakness in the preservation system.

The BAV Institute provides comprehensive support to cosmetic manufacturers in the microbiological safety assessment of their products. This includes not only microbial count studies but also preservative efficacy tests according to ISO 11930, as well as individual advice on interpreting analysis results.

For questions, our customer advisors are at your disposal at any time.

Sources:

• BAV Institute – Cosmetic Microbiology
• German Society for Scientific and Applied Cosmetics (DGK)