Health Canada has issued a significant expansion to a consumer product safety recall, targeting dozens of cosmetic items available across the country. The recall, announced on January 9, 2026, includes several varieties of the widely used Axe body spray, raising concerns for many Canadian households.
What Products Are Affected?
The recall encompasses a broad range of personal care and cosmetic products beyond just body sprays. While Health Canada has not released the exhaustive list in the initial alert, it confirms that "dozens" of items are involved. The inclusion of Axe, a brand owned by Unilever and found in most drugstores and supermarkets, indicates the potential wide reach of this safety action. Consumers are urged to check Health Canada's official recall website for the specific product names, lot numbers, and UPC codes.
Why Were These Products Recalled?
Recalls of this nature are typically initiated due to potential contamination, the presence of unauthorized ingredients, or other factors that could pose a risk to human health. While the precise reason for this particular recall was not detailed in the initial bulletin, Health Canada's involvement signifies a confirmed or suspected violation of the Food and Drugs Act or the Cosmetic Regulations. Past cosmetic recalls have been linked to microbial contamination, such as bacteria or fungi, or the presence of heavy metals like lead or arsenic.
What Should Canadian Consumers Do?
If you have purchased any Axe body spray or other cosmetic products recently, you should take immediate steps to ensure your safety.
First, stop using the product immediately. Do not apply it to your skin or inhale its spray.
Second, check for identifying information. Locate the lot number and Universal Product Code (UPC) on the container. Compare this information to the detailed list published by Health Canada.
Third, follow disposal or return instructions. Health Canada usually advises either safely discarding the product or returning it to the point of purchase for a full refund. Do not simply throw recalled items in the regular trash, as they may still pose a risk.
Finally, report any adverse reactions. If you have experienced a health issue such as a rash, infection, or respiratory problem that you believe is linked to a recalled product, report it to Health Canada's Consumer Product Safety Directorate.
This recall serves as a critical reminder for Canadians to stay informed about product safety alerts. With cosmetic items being used daily, such regulatory actions are vital for protecting public health. Consumers are encouraged to regularly review the recalls and safety alerts section on the Health Canada website to ensure the products in their homes meet all safety standards.
