PepsiCo has initiated a voluntary recall covering more than 122,000 cases of Gatorade sports drinks distributed across 37 states following the discovery of undeclared artificial food dyes, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The recall specifically impacts 28-ounce individual bottles of four popular varieties: Gatorade Lemon Lime, Gatorade Lemon Lime Zero, Gatorade Orange, and Gatorade Orange Zero. Testing revealed that select production lots contain Yellow No. 5 (tartrazine) and/or Yellow No. 6, neither of which was listed on the product ingredient labels.

While both color additives are approved by the FDA, federal regulations require their explicit disclosure on food packaging due to potential allergic reactions. Yellow No. 5, in particular, can trigger symptoms such as hives, skin rashes, or respiratory discomfort in sensitive individuals, especially those with pre-existing aspirin sensitivities.

The FDA has classified the action as a Class II recall, indicating that consumption of the affected drinks may cause temporary or medically reversible health consequences, while the probability of serious adverse outcomes remains remote.

The recall covers 15 specific lot codes with best-by dates spanning from April 2027 through June 2027. The affected shipments were distributed nationwide to retailers across 37 states, including California, Florida, Texas, New York, Georgia, and Illinois. Multipacks and other bottle sizes are not included in the recall.

PepsiCo initially launched the voluntary recall on September 25, with federal regulators updating the enforcement classification in early October. Consumers who have purchased 28-ounce bottles matching the recalled lot codes—particularly those with known dye allergies or sensitivities—are advised to discard the product or return it to the point of purchase for a full refund.