Sparta, New Jersey, May 12, 2026
Health Canada has issued a recall of more than 15,000 baby water teethers after testing identified the potential presence of Rhinocladiella similis, a fungal contaminant. While generally considered low risk, this organism may cause infection if a teether is punctured and the liquid filling is ingested, posing a heightened concern for infants and young children.
The affected products were sold across Canada between November 2023 and January 2026 and were imported from China. Health Canada is advising consumers to stop using the recalled teethers immediately and return them to the point of purchase for a refund.
This recall highlights the shared responsibility across the supply chain to protect consumers, particularly vulnerable populations such as infants. Even products designed for safety and comfort can present unforeseen risks when microbial hazards are not identified and controlled before reaching the market.
MPL Laboratories emphasizes that early microbial risk assessment and testing are critical components of effective product safety and quality assurance programs. Proactive detection of contamination can help manufacturers avoid costly recalls, regulatory action, and potential harm to consumers.
To support these efforts, MPL Laboratories offers comprehensive microbial testing and sterility assurance services that help manufacturers identify and mitigate contamination risks before products reach store shelves. As an FDA-registered, cGMP-compliant, and ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory, MPL delivers scientifically validated testing solutions for cosmetics, personal care products, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and other regulated industries.
How MPL Laboratories helps prevent product contamination:
- Advanced Microbial Screening: Detects bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that may compromise product safety.
- Sterility and Preservative Efficacy Testing: Confirms that preservation systems remain effective throughout a product’s intended shelf life.
- Regulatory-Grade Compliance: Testing aligned with ISO, cGMP, and global regulatory requirements.
- Expert Interpretation and Support: Experienced microbiologists provide actionable insights early in product development and production.
For manufacturers seeking to strengthen product safety programs and reduce the risk of contamination-related recalls, MPL Laboratories offers tailored testing services and expert consulting support.
To learn more, visit www.MPLLaboratories.com, call (800) 548-1874, or email info@MPLLaboratories.com.
About MPL Laboratories
MPL Laboratories (formerly Marypaul Laboratories) was founded in 1985 as a full service microbiology laboratory. It is ISO/IEC 17025 accredited by PJLA, FDA, and DEA registered. MPL’s staff includes a Ph.D. Diplomat of the American Board of Toxicology, M.S. and B.S. degreed microbiologists, along with other dedicated scientific personnel. The microbiology testing laboratory serves the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and personal care product industries. MPL strives to provide its clients with reliable, defensible test data delivered in a timely manner. The laboratory is part of the EMSL Analytical network of laboratories across the United States and Canada.
