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Health authorities have flagged a voluntary recall of a U.S.-sold organic powdered infant formula after three infants who consumed the product required hospital care for infant botulism. The move affects cans sold at Target and directly from the maker’s website and has immediate implications for families using whole-milk powdered formulas.
What prompted the recall
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The Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say three infants — treated in California, Washington state and Pennsylvania — were diagnosed with infant botulism after consuming Nara Organics Powdered Infant Formula. All three children received medical care and recovered; no deaths have been reported.
The manufacturer initiated a voluntary recall of all its whole-milk powdered formula products while federal and state agencies investigate the cause. Although laboratory tests so far have not identified Clostridium botulinum in sampled cans, the company is acting out of an abundance of caution.
Which products are affected
The recall covers Nara Organics Powdered Infant Formula sold in Target stores nationwide and online through Target.com and Nara.com. The company says its international distribution does not include sales outside the United States.
- Primary lots reported in the cases: 709125280E14F2, 709125288E14F2 and 708125174E14F2 (lot numbers appear on the can bottoms).
- Where to get a refund: Purchases from Nara.com between May and June 2026 will be automatically refunded; other Nara.com buyers can request refunds through the company’s site. Products purchased at Target can be returned there or refunded via Target’s customer service channels.
- Action for caregivers: Stop using the recalled products immediately and follow the refund or return instructions above.
Why this matters now
Infant botulism is rare but serious: spores of Clostridium botulinum can colonize an infant’s gut, produce neurotoxin, and cause progressive weakness that may affect breathing. The speed of diagnosis and treatment can determine outcomes, which is why officials moved quickly once the cluster of illnesses was identified.
Families feeding powdered whole-milk formula should check cans for the listed lot numbers and discontinue use of any affected product. Even in the absence of a positive lab finding from the product, the recall reflects a precautionary approach while investigators search for the source.
Symptoms parents should watch for
Early signs of infant botulism can be subtle and may resemble other conditions. Seek medical care promptly if a baby who consumed the formula shows:
- Constipation or decreased bowel movements
- Poor feeding or inability to suck
- Drooping eyelids, sluggish pupils, or altered facial expression
- Low muscle tone, weak cry, difficulty swallowing or breathing
Official response and next steps
Regulators and the manufacturer are coordinating testing and epidemiologic work to identify any contaminated sources or production issues. The company has said it is cooperating with the FDA, CDC and state health departments as they examine manufacturing records, distribution chains and remaining inventory.
Until investigators release further findings, pediatricians and emergency departments will remain alert for cases. Public health agencies typically update guidance if new evidence emerges; caregivers of infants who used the recalled formula should keep doctors informed of any changes in the child’s condition.
For families, the immediate priorities are verifying whether a purchased can is part of the recall, stopping use of affected cans, and contacting a healthcare provider urgently if any concerning symptoms develop.
