Baby Formula (File Photo – pexels)
Public health agencies across California are urging parents and caregivers to immediately stop using “Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula” following a voluntary nationwide recall tied to a multistate outbreak of infant botulism.
By News Desk
The Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) say the formula has been identified as a common exposure among affected infants in an ongoing investigation involving California, Pennsylvania, and Washington. Officials emphasize that laboratory testing of the product is underway, and the investigation is continuing in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), including its Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program.
As of June 13, 2026, three infants across the three states have been hospitalized with suspected or confirmed infant botulism after consuming the recalled formula. All three infants received treatment, and no deaths have been reported. Officials note that there are currently no confirmed cases in Pasadena or Los Angeles County.
On June 13, Nara Organics voluntarily recalled all lots and sizes of its Whole Milk Organic Organic Powdered Infant Formula sold nationwide, including products distributed through major retailers such as Target. Pasadena retailers have been notified, and officials say the product should no longer be available for sale locally. Businesses are being instructed not to sell, donate, or use any recalled product.
“While no cases have been reported in Pasadena, parents should seek immediate medical attention if their infant shows any symptoms after consuming the recalled Nara Organics formula,” said Dr. Parveen Kaur, Health Officer. “Rapid treatment can make all the difference after exposure.”
Symptoms of Infant Botulism
Health officials warn that infant botulism is a rare but serious illness caused when bacteria spores grow in an infant’s intestine and release toxins that affect the nervous system. Symptoms may develop days or even weeks after exposure and can include:
- Constipation
- Difficulty feeding, sucking, or swallowing
- Weak or altered cry
- Decreased facial expression
- Drooping eyelids
- Poor head control or muscle weakness
- In severe cases, breathing difficulties requiring emergency care
What Parents and Caregivers Should Do
Officials recommend that caregivers take the following precautions immediately:
- Stop using any Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula right away
- Discard unopened cans or return them to the place of purchase
- For opened cans, photograph the lot number and use-by date, label the container “DO NOT USE,” and store it safely away from food items for 30 days in case testing is needed
- Monitor infants for symptoms for 30 days after last exposure
- After 30 days without symptoms, discard any remaining formula and thoroughly wash all items or surfaces that may have been contaminated with hot, soapy water
- Call 9-1-1 or go to an emergency room immediately if symptoms appear
LACDPH also advises healthcare providers to promptly report any suspected cases to state health authorities to ensure rapid testing and access to treatment. Officials stress that early recognition and treatment are critical to recovery.
The investigation remains ongoing as federal, state, and local agencies continue to monitor for additional cases and coordinate response efforts.
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