Washington, D.C. — Health officials have announced a voluntary recall of powdered infant formula sold at Target stores after three infants were hospitalized with a rare but potentially life-threatening illness linked to botulism.
The recall was issued by Nara Organics in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after federal investigators identified a possible connection between the formula and several reported cases of infant botulism.
Although testing has not confirmed contamination in the product, the company said it is taking precautionary action while the investigation continues.
Recall Involves Infant Formula Sold at Target
According to the recall notice, the affected products include Nara Organics Milk Infant Formula in both 700-gram and 400-gram containers.
The products were distributed between July 2025 and June 2026 and were sold through Target stores.
The company announced the voluntary recall after receiving information from federal health agencies regarding three infants who reportedly consumed the formula before becoming ill.
In a statement, Nara Organics said:
“Late on Friday June 12, 2026, the FDA provided epidemiological information to us of three cases of infant botulism in babies who the CDC reported had consumed Nara Infant formula.”
The company also emphasized that laboratory testing has not yet detected Clostridium botulinum in any tested product samples.
“As of today, no Nara formula tested positive for C. Botulinum.”
Three Infants Hospitalized in Separate States
Health officials said the hospitalized infants were located in California, Pennsylvania, and Washington.
The CDC described infant botulism as a rare but potentially fatal illness that occurs when Clostridium botulinum spores are ingested and begin growing in a baby’s intestinal tract.
As the spores develop, they can produce a powerful neurotoxin that affects the nervous system and can lead to serious complications.
Federal investigators have not yet determined whether the formula was the direct cause of the illnesses, but officials are urging consumers to stop using the recalled products while the investigation remains active.
Symptoms May Appear Weeks Later
One of the challenges with infant botulism is that symptoms may not develop immediately after exposure. According to the CDC, signs of infant botulism can appear weeks after spores are ingested.
Parents and caregivers are being advised to watch for symptoms including:
- Constipation
- Poor feeding
- Drooping eyelids
- Sluggish pupils
- Weak or unusual crying
- Flattened facial expression
- Difficulty breathing
- Reduced sucking or gag reflexes
- Respiratory distress or respiratory arrest
Because the condition can worsen quickly, health officials recommend seeking emergency medical care if any symptoms are observed.
CDC Urges Immediate Medical Attention
Federal health officials are encouraging families who have used the recalled formula to remain vigilant and consult healthcare providers if concerns arise.
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The CDC stressed the seriousness of the illness and urged immediate action if symptoms develop.
“Seek immediate health care if your infant consumed Nara Organics brand infant formula and has any of these symptoms,” the agency said.
At this time, investigators continue to review medical records, product distribution data, and laboratory findings to determine whether a definitive connection exists between the recalled formula and the reported illnesses.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
While no contamination has been confirmed through product testing, the recall reflects growing caution among health officials when dealing with illnesses that can pose significant risks to infants.
The FDA, CDC, and Nara Organics are continuing to monitor the situation and may release additional information as the investigation progresses.
Parents who purchased the recalled products should stop using them immediately and follow guidance provided by retailers and health authorities regarding returns or disposal.
Have you been affected by a product recall involving infant food or formula? What steps do you think companies and regulators should take to better protect families? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
