WASHINGTON, D.C. — Federal health officials are warning parents across the country to stop using a popular organic infant formula immediately after three babies were diagnosed with a rare and potentially life-threatening illness.
Nara Organics has recalled its Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula sold nationwide after three infants in three different states developed infant botulism.
The cases were confirmed in California, Pennsylvania, and Washington.
The affected infants were between 2 and 5 months old when they became ill, after consuming the formula between April and May.
All Three Infants Were Hospitalized
All three babies required hospitalization and were treated with BabyBIG, an antitoxin specifically used to treat infant botulism.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed that no deaths have been reported.
What Is Infant Botulism — And Why Is It So Dangerous?
Infant botulism occurs when Clostridium botulinum spores grow inside a baby’s large intestine and produce toxins that attack the nervous system.
Symptoms can take weeks to appear. They often begin with constipation, then progress to a weak cry, difficulty sucking and swallowing, and poor head control.
Drooping eyelids, sluggish pupils, and facial weakness can follow.
Without treatment, the illness can lead to full-body paralysis and respiratory failure, requiring weeks of intensive hospital care.
What Parents Should Do Right Now
If you have purchased Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula, stop using it immediately.
The recall covers all products sold at Target stores, Target.com, and Nara.com between July 2025 and June 2026.
The FDA advises keeping the remaining product in a safe place, away from other food, and labeling it “Do Not Use.” State health officials may request samples for testing.
If no samples are needed, return or discard the product.
This Is Not the First Infant Formula Botulism Recall
This recall follows a similar outbreak less than a year ago linked to ByHeart formula, which resulted in approximately 48 illnesses, including 28 confirmed botulism cases, and a nationwide recall.
Health officials noted that Nara Organics accounts for less than 1% of infant formula sold in the U.S. and that the broader formula supply is not expected to be affected.
Are you a parent who purchased this formula? Have you noticed any symptoms in your baby? Share this article with every parent you know — and drop your questions or concerns in the comments below.
