According to the FDA, Carson City-based company Sierra Stain LLC recalled three shades of water-based tattoo inks from its Bloodline brand due to the presence of high levels of microorganisms. Sierra Stain announced the recall on August 23, 2024.
The recall pertains to three shades from Batch #1: Bloodline’s CAROLINA BLUE,1/2oz or 15mL (Lot BL23), ALL PURPOSE BLACK, 1oz or 30mL (Lot BL23), and UV CHINA PINK, 1/2oz or 15 mL (Lot SC23). The blue and black inks were manufactured on 7/1/23 with an expiration date listed as 7/1/26. The pink ink was manufactured in June of 2023 with an expiration date listed as June of 2026. All three shades were sold throughout the United States via Amazon.
The inks were sold in black PET bottles with wrap-around labels and black tops. Each bottle features the image of a woman’s face in profile with long, adorned hair. The product volume is listed beneath the image of the woman. The label on the back of the bottle includes the name of the shade, a list of ingredients, the dates of manufacture and expiration, and contact information for Sierra Stain LLC.
Sierra Stain LLC initiated the recall after the FDA released sampling reports indicating the presence of high levels of various microorganisms. More specifically, the Carolina Blue tested positive for Citrobacter braakii, Citrobacter farmer, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Achromobacter xylosoxidans, Cupriavidus pauculus, and Ochrobactrum anthropic. In samplings of the All Purpose Black, the FDA found elevated levels of Acetobacter senegalensis. And in the UV China Pink, levels of Curtobacterium citreum/pusillum were elevated.
While no adverse health events have been reported thus far, exposure to high levels of microorganisms in tattoo inks can cause infection at the tattoo site. Infection might present as a rash consisting of red papules or sores at the location of ink injection. Permanent scarring can result from these kinds of infections.
Distribution and sale of the product should cease immediately. Consumers are urged to dispose of the recalled products in a biohazard container or sharps bin.
The FDA indicates that Sierra Stain LLC is no longer in business and no longer produces Bloodline inks. Consumers can email sierrastain@gmail.com with any questions about the recalled product.
If you or a family member have suffered an adverse reaction after exposure to elevated levels of microorganisms in a consumer good, our attorneys at TruLaw would like to learn about your case. Such exposures can cause serious reactions, and you deserve fair compensation for your pain and suffering. Our team will help you fight for a just legal outcome. Reach out to our firm today or start by taking our free Instant Case Evaluation ℠.