An urgent voluntary recall has been initiated for an organic baby formula after three infants developed infant botulism, leading to hospitalization. The recall involves Nara Organics Powdered Infant Formula, which is available at Target stores and online retailers across the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the affected infants, located in California, Washington, and Pennsylvania, had all consumed this specific brand of formula. Thankfully, all three babies received treatment and are now recovering, with no reported fatalities.
The recalled formula is sold not only in Target stores but also through Target.com and Nara.com. Importantly, the FDA has stated that the affected products were not distributed outside of the United States. While there have been no positive tests for Clostridium botulinum—the bacteria responsible for infant botulism—Nara Organics has decided to recall all of its whole milk infant powdered formula products as a precautionary measure.
The specific lot numbers associated with the hospitalized infants are 709125280E14F2, 709125288E14F2, and 708125174E14F2. Parents and caregivers can find these numbers on the bottom of the formula cans. Nara’s proactive measures come as part of their commitment to ensuring the safety of infants and the families using their products; they are collaborating closely with the FDA, CDC, and state health partners to investigate the situation.
Consumers are strongly advised to cease use of the affected products immediately. Families who purchased the formula from Nara.com between May and June 2026 will receive an automatic refund. Others who bought the product from Nara’s website can request a refund directly. For those who obtained the formula from Target, returns can be made at the store or through Target’s website.
Infant botulism occurs when Clostridium botulinum spores colonize an infant’s intestinal tract, leading to the growth of botulinum neurotoxins. Symptoms of this condition may include constipation, poor feeding, drooping eyelids, sluggish pupils, low muscle tone, difficulty sucking or swallowing, weak or altered crying, and difficulty breathing. Respiratory arrest is a serious risk associated with this illness. Parents whose babies exhibit any of these symptoms after consuming the formula are urged to contact their healthcare provider at once.
This incident highlights the ongoing concerns around infant nutrition and safety, pointing out the significance of vigilance in monitoring food products for potential health risks.
