The affected infants, who were between two and five months old, became ill after consuming the formula between April and May 2026. All three were hospitalised and received treatment, according to health authorities.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the cases were identified in California, Pennsylvania and Washington. No deaths have been reported. The recall applies to all Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula products sold nationwide between July 2025 and June 2026 through Target stores, Target.com and Nara.com.
Health Agencies Investigate Three Linked Cases
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the CDC, the California Department of Public Health and other state and local partners are investigating what officials have described as a multistate outbreak involving three confirmed or suspected infant botulism illnesses.
According to an FDA update issued on 13 June 2026, the California Department of Public Health’s Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program reported three toxin type A infections among infants who had consumed Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula. Illness onset occurred between April and May 2026.
Officials in two states have collected leftover formula for testing, and the FDA said further laboratory analysis by federal and state partners is ongoing. Results are expected in the coming weeks.
The agency stated that it contacted Nara Organics on 12 June to notify the company of the outbreak and recommended a recall because of the severity of the illness and the epidemiological evidence. One day later, the company agreed to recall all Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula products.
According to the FDA, all recalled Nara Organics formula was manufactured in Europe. The agency also noted that the brand accounts for less than 1% of infant formula sold in the United States and said the recall is not expected to create supply shortages.
Symptoms, Risks and Advice for Parents
Infant botulism is a rare but serious illness caused when Clostridium botulinum spores grow in a baby’s large intestine and produce toxins that affect the nervous system.
According to the CDC, symptoms often begin with constipation and may progress to poor feeding, difficulty sucking or swallowing, a weak or altered cry and loss of head control. Infants can also develop drooping eyelids, sluggish pupils, facial weakness and breathing difficulties.
The CDC said untreated illness can lead to progressive paralysis and may require weeks of hospital care. In severe cases, respiratory failure can occur.
Health officials are advising parents and caregivers to stop using the recalled formula immediately. The FDA recommends keeping any remaining product away from other food items and clearly labelling it “Do Not Use”, as public health authorities may request samples for testing if an infant develops symptoms.
The agency also advises recording or photographing information on the container before disposal. Opened formula may be retained for up to a month in case testing becomes necessary. If no symptoms appear and health officials do not require the product, it should be discarded or returned.
Physicians who suspect infant botulism are being advised to seek immediate consultation through the Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program, which provides round-the-clock support for potential cases. The FDA said its investigation remains ongoing and that further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
