Baby Formula Sold at Target Recalled Over Botulism Concerns – Maine, New Hampshire, & Massachusetts Take Note

According to an article posted on the WMTW website, Nara Organics has recalled its organic baby formula sold nationwide at Target stores and through its website after federal health officials linked it to a multistate outbreak of infant botulism.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, three infants between the ages of 2 and 5 months became sick in April and May after consuming Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula. The cases were reported in California, Pennsylvania, and Washington. All three babies were hospitalized and received BabyBIG, the FDA-approved treatment for infant botulism.

Infant botulism is a rare but potentially life-threatening illness that affects babies younger than 1 year old. The disease occurs when bacteria produce toxins in an infant's immature digestive system. Symptoms can include constipation, poor feeding, drooping eyelids, weak muscle tone, difficulty swallowing, and breathing problems. Health officials say babies showing these signs should receive immediate medical care.

The FDA said the recalled product accounts for less than 1% of infant formula sold in the United States, meaning the recall is not expected to create a nationwide formula shortage. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging parents and caregivers to stop using the formula immediately. The agency noted that while the product is manufactured in Europe, it is sold only in the United States.

The CDC also advised anyone with an opened container to photograph it, record the lot number and expiration date, and closely monitor their infant for symptoms. The agency recommends labeling the formula "Do Not Use" and storing it separately from other baby food for at least one month. If the child remains symptom-free during that time, the leftover formula should then be discarded, according to the CDC.