Infant Botulism Outbreak linked to Nara Organics Powdered Infant Formula

United States

Update July 6th, 2026:
The FDA and CDC have confirmed a fourth case in the multistate infant botulism outbreak linked to Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula, bringing the total to four illnesses and four hospitalizations across California, Pennsylvania, and Washington. Illness onset dates ranged from April through May 31, 2026.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) detected Clostridium botulinum in an opened can of Nara Organics powdered infant formula collected from the home of one of the affected infants. Testing of unopened product samples by the FDA and additional analyses by state laboratories are ongoing.

The FDA continues working with the manufacturer and other firms involved to determine the root cause of the outbreak and whether additional products may be affected.

Source: FDA


Update June 26th, 2026:
The FDA provided additional details on its ongoing investigation into the multistate infant botulism outbreak linked to Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula. Testing is underway on unopened formula samples from the affected lots, as well as leftover formula collected from two households, with results expected in the coming weeks.

The FDA also reported that the lots associated with the illnesses were manufactured using milk supplied by Organic West Milk and spray-dried by Dairy Farmers of America. These suppliers were also linked to the 2025 ByHeart powdered infant formula botulism outbreak. However, the agency stated there is currently insufficient evidence to determine whether they are the source of contamination in the current outbreak.

Additionally, the FDA said Organic West Milk has acknowledged that it previously provided an incomplete customer list during the 2025 investigation and has since confirmed that its milk was also supplied to manufacturers of Nara Organics infant formula. The agency continues working with U.S. and European partners to identify the root cause of the outbreak and determine whether additional products may be affected.

Source: FDA


Update June 24th, 2026:
The FDA has initiated sampling.

Source: FDA Investigations of Foodborne Illness Outbreaks


Update June 18th, 2026:
The FDA has initiated a traceback.

Source: FDA Investigations of Foodborne Illness Outbreaks


June 14th, 2026:
The FDA and CDC, alongside the California Department of Public Health and other partners, are investigating an outbreak of infant botulism linked to Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula. Three cases have been reported across California, Pennsylvania, and Washington, with all affected infants having consumed the formula. The outbreak has led to a nationwide recall.

The investigation, which began after three infants were diagnosed with toxin type A botulism, is focused on formula distributed through Target stores and online platforms. Symptoms of infant botulism include constipation, poor feeding, and difficulty swallowing, which can progress to severe respiratory issues. The formula, making up less than 1% of the U.S. market, was distributed between July 2025 and June 2026.

The problem was identified when the California Department of Public Health reported the cases, prompting the FDA to contact Nara Organics on June 12, 2026. The company agreed to recall the product the following day. Testing of leftover formula is ongoing, and results are expected soon. The FDA's investigation continues, with updates to be provided as new information emerges.

Source: www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-infant-botulism-powdered-infant-formula-june-2026
Update June 18th, 2026: www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigations-foodborne-illness-outbreaks