The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for three tattoo ink products from Sierra Stain, a Nevada-based manufacturer, after laboratory tests revealed high concentrations of bacteria that could pose health risks to consumers. The affected products are part of Sierra Stain’s ‘Bloodline’ line, specifically the Carolina Blue, All Purpose Black, and UV China Pink inks.
Health Risks and Product Disposal
Although Sierra Stain and its Bloodline products have since ceased production, tattoo artists and retailers are advised to avoid using or selling any remaining stock of these inks. The FDA recommends that any existing inventory be safely disposed of to prevent potential health hazards. Despite no official reports of illness linked to these inks, the FDA emphasizes that symptoms of skin infections, such as rashes or lesions, may be challenging to identify and may not be immediately connected to the ink used.
Contamination Details
FDA testing revealed that all three inks were contaminated with high concentrations of microorganisms. The Carolina Blue ink was found to contain six types of bacteria, including Citrobacter braakii, Citrobacter farmer, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Achromobacter xylosoxidans, Ochrobactrum anthropic, and Cupriavidus pauculus. These bacteria are known to infect humans and may be linked to severe conditions such as sepsis and pneumonia, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
The All Purpose Black ink was found to have high levels of Acetobacter senegalensis, a bacterium typically associated with vinegar production and originally isolated from mangos. The UV China Pink ink was contaminated with two species of soil microbe from the genus Curtobacterium, although the health implications of these less-studied species remain unclear.
Broader Concerns and Research Findings
The recall comes amidst growing concerns about the safety of tattoo inks. A study conducted in February identified that 45 out of 54 tattoo inks analyzed contained substances not listed on their labels, raising alarms about potential unrecognized health threats. Additionally, a study in July found that approximately one-third of tattoo inks sold in the U.S. were contaminated with bacteria. While not all contaminated inks are known to cause infections, the findings highlight the need for further investigation into the safety of these products.
Preventive Measures and Consumer Advice
Tattoo-related infections, though relatively rare, can occur in 0.5 to 6 percent of tattooed individuals. These infections may result from various factors, including microbial contamination of the ink, poor hygiene practices, and inadequate aftercare. The recall notice underscores the importance of ensuring a clean and professional environment for tattoo application. Consumers are advised to carefully select their tattoo artists and be vigilant about the safety standards of their chosen studios.
For those who suspect that their health issues may be linked to the recalled inks, the FDA encourages reporting cases to its MedWatch program to aid in ongoing safety evaluations and investigations.