Sep 24, 2026 - Cosmetics
Pluralibacter gergoviae: A challenge to the safety of cosmetic products
Pluralibacter gergoviae causes another product recall: After a shampoo was already recalled in Germany in June 2026 due to detection of the bacterium, a hand wash product in the United Kingdom is now affected.
The UK Office for Product Safety and Standards reported the recall of a hand wash refill product in mid-September after tests detected Pluralibacter gergoviae. The authority classifies the contamination as a microbiological risk. In particular, for sensitive individuals or people with a compromised skin barrier, contamination can lead to infections or other health impairments.
Already in June a large discount retailer in Germany recalled a shampoo in which Pluralibacter gergoviae had also been detected. The current case from the United Kingdom once again demonstrates that the microorganism remains relevant to the microbiological safety of cosmetic products.
Pluralibacter gergoviae, formerly known as Enterobacter gergoviae, is a Gram-negative bacterium. Because of its particular characteristics, the organism poses a challenge for the cosmetics industry. It can exhibit reduced susceptibility to certain preservatives and, under suitable conditions, survive in cosmetic products.
The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has also already addressed the health risk of Pluralibacter gergoviae in cosmetic products. According to the BfR, cosmetic products intended for external use should, in principle, be free of Pluralibacter gergoviae in order to avoid health risks – particularly for sensitive population groups.
The current recalls underline how important reliable microbiological quality control and verification of the effectiveness of preservative systems in cosmetic products are.
At the BAV Institut we regularly perform tests for Pluralibacter gergoviae. Use our services for the development and quality control of your cosmetic products, for example microbiological testing, extended preservative challenge tests with Pluralibacter gergoviae, and our support in root cause analysis.
Our customer advisors will be happy to help you.
Sources/Notes:
- Office for Product Safety and Standards (UK): Product Recall – Baylis & Harding Oud, Cedar & Amber 1L Hand Wash Refill, 16.09.2026
- Product recall “Cien Shampoo Moisture, 400 ml” due to detection of Pluralibacter gergoviae, 19.06.2026
- Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR): “Skin creams, make-up and shampoos should be free of Pluralibacter gergoviae”, updated statement No. 038/2020
- BAV Institut: Pluralibacter gergoviae in cosmetic products
- BAV Institut: Extended preservative challenge tests with Pluralibacter gergoviae