What Parents Need To Know: The FDA is investigating infant botulism cases linked to Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula; Nara has issued a voluntary recall and many recent purchases are being refunded. Stop using any affected formula immediately and watch infants for symptoms such as poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing or decreased facial expression. Label and set aside suspect cans for possible testing or record the lot number before discarding, and contact your pediatrician, local health department or call 211 for replacement resources.
FDA Investigating Possible Botulism Linked to Nara Organics Infant Formula — Voluntary Recall and Safety Guidance
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating reports that infants in California, Pennsylvania and Washington developed confirmed or suspected infant botulism after consuming Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula. While testing is ongoing, Nara Organics has initiated a voluntary recall and is providing refunds in many cases for recent purchases.
What Parents Should Do Now
Stop using any Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic formula you have at home immediately. Monitor any infant who consumed the product and seek urgent medical care if you observe concerning symptoms.
Signs Of Infant Botulism
- Poor or decreased feeding
- Loss of head control
- Difficulty swallowing
- Reduced facial expression or decreased movement
If your child shows any of these signs after consuming the formula, seek immediate medical attention and inform providers about possible exposure to contaminated formula.
Image via FDA
Preserve Or Document Suspect Cans
If a baby becomes ill, local health authorities may request a can for testing. The FDA recommends labeling suspect cans "DO NOT USE" and storing them separately from other infant foods for about one month so they can be made available for testing if needed. If you choose to discard a can instead, record the lot number printed on the bottom before throwing it away.
Cleaning And Household Steps
Wash bottles, nipples and any surfaces that may have contacted the formula using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher. Follow your pediatrician’s advice for any further cleaning or feeding precautions.
Recall, Lot Codes, And Refunds
Nara Organics says it is voluntarily recalling all infant formula currently on the market. Three lot codes have been linked to the illnesses: 709125280E14F2, 709125288E14F2, 708125174E14F2. A full list of recalled lot codes is posted on Nara Organics’ website.
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Consumers who bought formula directly from Nara’s website in May or June have been issued refunds; purchasers from March or April should contact the company and provide a photo of the lot number on the bottom of the can. If the product was purchased at Target, Nara requests returns be handled through the retailer’s returns process.
Replacing Formula And Financial Help
If you need replacement formula or cannot afford new supplies:
- Request a refund from Nara per the company’s instructions.
- Contact other manufacturers — many offer coupons or samples.
- Check eligibility for WIC or speak with your pediatrician about a prescription for a medically indicated formula; WIC or insurance may cover nonstandard products with a medical need.
- Contact your local health department or pediatrician for available sample cans or emergency assistance.
- Search local food banks or community organizations, or call 211 for a directory of resources.
Ongoing Investigation
The FDA and local health departments are coordinating case investigations and product testing and will update guidance as results become available. Parents and caregivers who suspect exposure or observe worrying symptoms should contact medical services immediately.
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