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Gold Star Distribution's Halls Cough Drops Recall 2026 Over Rodent-Linked CGMP Violations

Gold Star Distribution is recalling all Halls cough drops distributed nationwide. The recall covers multiple SKUs including Menthol 12-count bags and Vitamin C 20-count lozenges. The root cause cited is CGMP deviations with insanitary conditions and rodent exposure at the distribution center. Consumers should stop using these products and follow recall instructions from Gold Star Distribution.

Official notice

Source-backed recall notice

No product image was available from the source feed.

Official source
FDA DRUG
Recall date
December 26, 2025
Status
ACTIVE
Severity
8/10

Quick Facts at a Glance

Recall Date
December 26, 2025
Hazard Level
HIGH
Brand
Gold Star Distribution
Category
Health & Personal Care
Sold At
Multiple Retailers
Geographic Scope
1 states
At-Risk Groups
GENERAL

What to Do Now

Use this page like a recall checklist: verify the product first, then act on the official remedy.

Immediate steps

  1. 1Stop using the product until you confirm whether it is included in the recall.
  2. 2Compare the product label, model number, UPC, color, size, and purchase location against the identifiers below.
  3. 3Follow the official remedy from FDA - Drug Safety; save photos, receipts, labels, and correspondence before contacting the company.
  4. 4If the product could harm a child, older adult, pet, or patient, move it out of reach immediately.

Check these identifiers

Brand
Gold Star Distribution
Product type
Cough Drops (OTC)
Sold at
Multiple Retailers
Where affected
ALL

Recall Timeline

Key dates and source checks for this recall record.

  1. Recall announced

    December 26, 2025

  2. Reported by FDA DRUG

    January 21, 2026

  3. RecallRadar source check

    March 18, 2026

  4. Consumer action

    Use the official remedy and keep documentation.

Hazard Information

CGMP Deviations: Insanitary conditions including rodent exposure/activity in their distribution center.

What You Should Do

Consumers and healthcare providers should stop using this product immediately. Contact GOLD STAR DISTRIBUTION INC or your healthcare provider for guidance. Notification method: Two or more of the following: Email, Fax, Letter, Press Release, Telephone, Visit

About This Product

Halls cough drops are OTC throat lozenges used to soothe cough symptoms. They are sold in various bag and stick formats.

Why This Is Dangerous

CGMP deviations created insanitary conditions at the distribution center, including rodent exposure or activity. This creates a contamination risk for the products.

Industry Context

This recall is not described as part of a broader industry pattern.

Real-World Impact

Consumers could be exposed to contaminated product. There are no reported injuries in the recall, but the risk warrants stopping use and following the recall guidance.

Practical Guidance

How to identify if yours is affected

  1. Identify the affected Halls products listed in the recall.
  2. Check packaging for the SKUs and 20-ct sticks or 12-ct bag formats.
  3. Stop using any recalled products immediately.

Where to find product info

FDA enforcement page for recall D-0278-2026 (linked in the recall notice).

What timeline to expect

Refunds or replacements will be managed by Gold Star Distribution per their notification methods; no timeline is specified in the recall.

If the manufacturer is unresponsive

  • File a complaint with the FDA if the company is unresponsive
  • Contact consumer protection agencies in your state to report delays

How to prevent similar issues

  • Buy cough drops from reputable retailers.
  • Check packaging and lot codes for recalls before use.
  • Be alert for recalls tied to CGMP issues or sanitation problems.

Documentation advice

Keep the recall notice, take photos of packaging and SKU labels, save all correspondence with the distributor.

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Product Details

Affected Halls products include both bag and stick formats distributed nationwide by Gold Star Distribution. SKUs listed include Menthol 12-count bags; Honey Lemon 12-count bags; Defense Citrus 12-count bags; Cherry 12-count bags; M. Cherry 20-stick lozenges; Brazil Cherry 21-count/27.5 g; Lemon Honey 20-count (#1180E); Lime Fresh 20-count (#1182); Menthol Blue 20-count (#1180A); Brazil Menthol 21-count/27.5 g; M. Strawberry 20-stick; Defense Vitamin C 20-count (#1181). All lots distributed by Gold Star Distribution are included."},{

Key Facts

  • 12 affected SKUs listed from Menthol 12CT bags to Defense Vitamin C 20CT (#1181)
  • Nationwide distribution in the US by Gold Star Distribution
  • CGMP deviations include insanitary conditions and rodent exposure at the distribution center
  • No injuries or illnesses reported in the recall documentation
  • Remedies include guidance on refunds or replacements via multiple notification methods

Safety Guide

Not sure what to do next? Our guide walks you through the process step by step.

Read: What to Do When You Find a Recalled Product

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Safety Assessment

Risk LevelHIGH
Severity Score
8/ 10
Affected Groups
GENERAL
Injury Types
OTHER

Product Details

Affected States
ALL
Report Date
January 21, 2026
Source Agency
FDA - Drug Safety
Recall Status
ACTIVE

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