If you have Nara Organics powdered infant formula in your pantry, please stop using it immediately. Nara Organics has initiated a voluntary recall of all its powdered formula products currently on the market due to potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum. This decision follows reports from the FDA and CDC regarding three infants who were hospitalized with infant botulism after consuming the product.
The affected infants, residing in California, Washington, and Pennsylvania, required treatment with Botulism Immune Globulin Intravenous (BabyBIG). While no deaths have been reported and the formula has not yet tested positive for the bacteria, the company is pulling all stock as a safety measure while they work with health authorities to investigate the source of the issue.
Understanding the Risks of Infant Botulism
Infant botulism is a rare but extremely serious condition that occurs when a baby swallows Clostridium botulinum spores. Once inside the intestinal tract, these spores can grow and release dangerous neurotoxins. Because an infant’s digestive system is still maturing, it lacks the protective mechanisms that allow older children and adults to pass these spores safely through their systems.
Parents and caregivers should monitor their children for the following symptoms:
- Persistent constipation
- Noticeable weakness or “floppiness” (low muscle tone)
- A weak or altered cry
- Difficulty sucking or feeding poorly
- Drooping eyelids (ptosis)
- Sluggish pupil response
- Trouble swallowing
- Respiratory distress or difficulty breathing
If your child has consumed Nara formula and shows any of these warning signs, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Identifying Recalled Nara Organics Products
The recall affects all batches of Nara Organics Powdered Infant Formula distributed through Target stores, Target.com, and Nara.com between July 2025 and June 2026. This includes the following products:
- Nara Organics Whole Milk Infant Formula (700g) — UPC 860013251901
- Nara Organics Whole Milk Infant Formula (400g) — UPC 860013251918
To determine if your specific can is part of the recall, locate the lot code on the bottom of the container. The following lot codes are included:
- 408125075E14F2
- 708125076E14F2
- 708125083E14F2
- 408125139E14F2
- 708125141E14F2
- 708125145E14F2
- 708125174E14F2
- 709125273E14F2
- 709125280E14F2
- 709125288E14F2
- 409125307E14F2
- 70926019ENNB
- 70926029ENNB
- 70926035ENNB
- 70926039ENNB
- 70926042ENNB
Notably, the three cases of hospitalization were linked specifically to lot codes 709125280E14F2, 709125288E14F2, and 708125174E14F2.
Immediate Safety Steps and Refund Instructions
Do not attempt to use the formula even if it appears, smells, and tastes normal. Contamination is not always visible to the naked eye. To secure a refund, follow these steps based on where you purchased the product:
- Direct Purchases: For orders placed on Nara.com during May or June 2026, the company will process refunds automatically.
- Retail and Other Purchases: If you bought the formula at Target or elsewhere, take a clear photo of the lot code on the bottom of the can and upload it to the refund request form at Nara’s official website.
- Target Returns: You may also return the physical product to any Target store for a full refund.
For further assistance, you can reach out to the company directly at [email protected].
How to File a Report with the FDA
If your child has experienced an adverse health event that you believe is related to this formula, it is important to notify federal authorities. You can submit a report through the following channels:
- The FDA SmartHub portal for product problems.
- The electronic Voluntary MedWatch form available at FDA.gov.
- A physical MedWatch form sent via mail to the FDA.
Current Status of the Safety Investigation
The FDA and CDC officially notified Nara Organics of the three infant botulism cases on June 12, 2026. While the investigation into the root cause of the potential contamination continues, the company is maintaining full cooperation with state and federal health officials. Nara has stated they will provide transparent updates to the public as soon as more laboratory results or investigative findings become available.
Final Safety Summary for Parents
The safety of your baby is the top priority. If you have any Nara Organics formula in your home from the specified dates, discard it or return it immediately. While infant botulism is a terrifying prospect, early medical intervention is highly effective. Stay vigilant for symptoms and keep a record of your product’s lot numbers should you need to speak with a pediatrician or the FDA.
