Four U.S. infants have now been diagnosed with botulism after consuming recalled Nara Organics baby formula, the Food and Drug Administration said.
The confirmed illnesses were reported in California, Pennsylvania and Washington and are linked to Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula. The formula was recalled last month after three babies were hospitalized, while federal investigators continue analyzing unopened containers from the implicated lots.
The FDA said results from that testing are expected in the “coming weeks.”
The organic infant formula had been available nationwide at Target stores and through Nara.com. According to the FDA’s Monday update, the four infants became sick between April and May 2026.
“Parents and caregivers should stop using Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula immediately,” the FDA said. “If your child is experiencing symptoms after consuming Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula, seek immediate health care.”
Infant botulism is uncommon but potentially life-threatening, affecting babies younger than 1 whose gut microbiomes are not yet fully developed. It can occur when an infant ingests bacterial spores that produce a toxin in the intestines. Warning signs may include constipation, poor feeding, drooping eyelids, low muscle tone, trouble swallowing and breathing difficulties.
The agency also advised parents not to discard opened cans right away, noting that state health officials may request samples for testing if a baby shows symptoms of botulism.
“Label it ‘DO NOT USE’ and keep it stored in a safe place away from other items you feed your baby for at least a month,” the FDA said. “If no symptoms appear after a month, throw the leftover formula away.”
A previous outbreak of infant botulism tied to the formula brand ByHeart led to over 50 illnesses in 19 states.
Alain Sherter
