A voluntary recall has been initiated for a powdered infant formula after three babies were hospitalised with botulism, as confirmed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in a statement released on Saturday, June 13. The affected product, Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula, was distributed across Target outlets and online platforms such as Target.com and Nara.com between July 2025 and June 2026.
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The FDA reported that cases of infant botulism emerged from California, Pennsylvania, and Washington. Although laboratory testing has not confirmed any contamination of Clostridium botulinum in the recalled formula, health authorities are advising parents to discontinue use of the product immediately.
Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It affects the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness and paralysis, particularly in infants under one year of age. According to health experts, the condition can manifest as constipation, eyelid drooping, and difficulties in feeding.
The FDA noted that the infant cases were reported between April and May, with the last reported illness occurring on May 31. The affected infants, aged between two to five months, were treated with BabyBIG, a botulism antitoxin specifically designed for infants, as per the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Thankfully, to date, there have been no reported fatalities linked to these cases.
On June 12, following a review of the situation, the FDA recommended Nara Organics undertake a recall due to the severity of the illnesses reported. Subsequently, the company agreed to withdraw all its Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula products. The recall represents a precautionary measure amid concerns over potential contamination, and includes specific product lots that were consumed by the affected infants.
Among the recalled products are the 700g and 400g variants of Nara Organics Whole Milk Infant Formula, identifiable by the UPC codes 860013251901 and 860013251918, respectively. The company also indicated that the implicated lots are numbered 709125280E14F2, 709125288E14F2, and 708125174E14F2. Further details can be found in the company’s announcement dated June 13.
Nara Organics emphasised in its communications that the well-being of infants is their foremost priority. They advised parents to stop using all their infant formula products immediately and reassured consumers that no formula has tested positive for Clostridium botulinum at present. The company stated, “We believe recalling all Nara formula and pausing sales is the right and responsible thing to do.”
As the recall unfolds, parents are reminded to monitor for symptoms of infant botulism such as unusual lethargy, poor feeding, and general muscle weakness. If any of these symptoms occur, it is crucial to seek medical attention without delay.
This incident highlights the importance of food safety in infant nutrition, as parents rely on formulas to provide essential nourishment to their young children. Regulatory authorities and manufacturers alike are urged to remain vigilant in ensuring the safety and integrity of baby food products, given their critical role in infant health.
As this story develops, further updates from the FDA and Nara Organics are expected, particularly concerning ongoing investigations and the safety of other similar products on the market. Parents are encouraged to stay informed and adhere to guidance from health authorities to ensure the protection of their children’s health during this critical time.