Organic formula brand issues recall after 3 babies diagnosed with infant botulism
Nara Organics is recalling all lots of their powdered infant formula after three infants were hospitalized with infant botulism. The Food and Drug Administration issued a notice stating that all three babies had consumed Nara Organics Powdered Infant Formula, which is sold at Target stores across the United States. The affected babies were located in California, Washington, and Pennsylvania, but fortunately, all three were successfully treated and no deaths were reported.
The formula was also available for purchase on Target.com and Nara.com, but it was not distributed outside of the United States. Although no lots of the formula have tested positive for Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that causes infant botulism, the company is recalling all whole milk infant powdered formula products as a precautionary measure.
The specific product lots consumed by the sickened babies are 709125280E14F2, 709125288E14F2, and 708125174E14F2. These lot numbers can be found on the bottom of the formula cans. Nara Organics is working closely with the FDA, CDC, and state partners to investigate the root causes of these cases and ensure the safety of babies and families who use their product.
Customers who have purchased the affected products are advised to stop using them immediately. Those who bought formula from Nara.com between May and June 2026 will receive an automatic refund, while others can request a refund online. Customers who purchased the product at Target can return it to the store or visit Target’s website for a refund.
Infant botulism occurs when Clostridium botulinum spores enter and colonize the intestinal tract, leading to the growth of botulinum neurotoxins. Symptoms of infant botulism include constipation, poor feeding, drooping eyelids, sluggish pupils, low muscle tone, difficulty sucking and swallowing, weak or altered crying, difficulty breathing, generalized weakness, and the possibility of respiratory arrest. If a baby has consumed the product and exhibits these symptoms, caregivers should seek medical attention immediately.
It is crucial for parents and caregivers to be vigilant and attentive to any changes in their baby’s health after consuming the recalled formula. By taking prompt action and following the necessary steps outlined by Nara Organics and the FDA, the risk of complications from infant botulism can be minimized.
