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FDA Warns of Dangerous Bacterial Contamination in Sacred Tattoo Inks

by Jessica

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning tattoo artists and customers about serious health risks associated with two contaminated tattoo inks manufactured by Sacred Tattoo Ink. The inks — one black and one yellow — were found to contain harmful bacteria, including the potentially dangerous Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

In a safety alert issued on May 7, the FDA said the two affected lots are:

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Raven Black, lot No. RB0624, best by June 28, 2027

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Sunny Daze, lot No. SD1124, best by November 1, 2027

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“These tattoo inks were contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms, which can cause infections and lead to serious health injuries when injected into the skin,” the FDA stated. The risk is heightened any time the skin barrier is broken, such as during a tattooing procedure.

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Bacteria of Concern: Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Among the bacteria found, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a particular concern. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this bacterium is commonly associated with healthcare-related infections, especially in individuals with open wounds, those using catheters, or patients on ventilators. Certain strains of the bacteria are also resistant to antibiotics, making treatment more challenging.

While no injuries or illnesses have been reported in connection with these inks so far, the FDA noted that some tattoo-related infections can result in permanent scarring. Infections may appear as rashes, red papules, or lesions in areas where contaminated ink was applied.

“Symptoms of tattoo infections can be difficult to diagnose,” the FDA cautioned. “They may resemble allergic reactions or other skin conditions, potentially leading to misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment.”

What Customers and Artists Should Do

Customers planning to get a tattoo are urged to ask artists about the ink brands and lot numbers being used. If either of the contaminated lots is mentioned, the FDA recommends choosing an alternative ink or walking away.

Tattoo studios and retailers should stop using or selling the affected products immediately.

Scroggins, Texas-based Sacred Tattoo Ink acknowledged the issue in a Facebook post, emphasizing that the affected batches were produced in limited quantities. “I guess it was our turn,” a company representative wrote. “Only two colors were recalled, so I think it’s a great thing.”

Not an Isolated Incident

The FDA alert is the latest in a series of contamination issues linked to tattoo inks. A 2023 study found that between 2003 and 2023, the U.S. saw 15 voluntary recalls involving more than 200 tattoo inks — with nearly all of them due to microbial contamination.

In August 2024, Sierra Stain recalled three water-based pigments found to contain high concentrations of multiple microorganisms.

Consumers who experience adverse reactions after getting a tattoo are advised to seek medical attention promptly. Suspected cases linked to these inks can be reported through the FDA’s SmartHub portal.

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