New infant botulism outbreak puts fancy formulas under scrutiny

Live updates

1. 27d ago

   FDA Probes Botulism Outbreak Linked to Nara Organics Formula

   The FDA is investigating a multistate infant botulism outbreak tied to Nara Organics powdered infant formula. Three babies have been hospitalized, though no deaths are reported. The company uses a detection method that research suggests may fail to identify contamination.

   What's confirmed:

   • Three infants were hospitalized after consuming Nara Organics powdered infant formula.
   • No deaths have been reported in this outbreak.
   • Nara Organics formula was sold at Target.
   • The FDA is investigating the outbreak.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • The SRC enumeration detection method used by Nara Organics may fail to catch contamination.
   • Two formula brands were pulled in under a year due to infant botulism.
   confidence 90%
2. 31d ago

   Nara Organics Recalls All Infant Formula Lots Amid Botulism Outbreak

   Federal health officials are investigating a multistate infant botulism outbreak linked to Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula. The product is manufactured in Europe and has been subject to a nationwide voluntary recall of all lots. Three babies have been hospitalized, with all reported illnesses occurring in California.

   What's confirmed:

   • Federal health officials are investigating a multistate outbreak of infant botulism linked to Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula.
   • Three babies have been hospitalized.
   • Nara Organics has issued a nationwide voluntary recall of all lots of the product.
   • The raw milk product is manufactured in Europe.
   • Three reported illnesses occurred across California.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • This is the second infant-formula botulism outbreak in seven months.
   • The danger in whole-milk powder was documented and public before the three hospitalizations.
   confidence 100%
3. 34d ago

   FDA and CDC Investigate Multistate Infant Botulism Outbreak

   Federal agencies are investigating an outbreak of infant botulism linked to Nara Organics powdered infant formula. Three babies have been hospitalized. A nationwide recall is in effect for the product.

   What's confirmed:

   • The FDA and CDC are investigating a multistate outbreak of infant botulism linked to Nara Organics infant formula.
   • Three babies have been hospitalized with botulism linked to the formula.
   • A nationwide recall has been issued for Nara Organics infant formula.
   • The outbreak involves cases in California, Pennsylvania, and Washington.
   • The FDA is collaborating with the California Department of Public Health, the Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program, and local partners.
   confidence 100%
4. 35d ago

   Nara Organics Recalls Powdered Formula Amid Multi-State Botulism Outbreak

   The FDA is investigating a multi-state infant botulism outbreak linked to Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula. Three babies have been diagnosed, prompting a nationwide recall of the product. Health officials in San Diego and Washington have issued warnings or reports regarding the cases.

   What's confirmed:

   • The FDA is investigating a multi-state infant botulism outbreak linked to Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula.
   • Three babies have been diagnosed with infant botulism.
   • Nara Organics infant formula has been pulled nationwide.
   • A German company manufactured the infant formula linked to the outbreak.
   • The manufacturer uses more than a million liters of milk daily from 100 contract farmers.
   • All infant formula sold in the U.S. must meet safety and nutritional requirements.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Sulfite-reducing clostridia enumeration tests used by Nara Organics prior to the outbreak are insufficient.
   • Premium and organic formulas may have outpaced the science and regulations needed for safety.
   • Georgia inspectors are checking Target shelves for the recalled products.
   confidence 90%