Overview
A study released in 2019 estimated that 95% of baby food products on the market contain harmful chemicals and toxic heavy metals — and many are from the most popular brands. (1)(2)
These baby foods contain dangerously high levels of arsenic, lead, mercury, and cadmium.
Exposure to these heavy metals can cause permanent damage to your baby’s brain development. It may also lead to IQ decrease and antisocial behavior. (3)(4)
In June 2023, Consumer Reports released the results of repeat tests conducted on some baby foods categorized as “concerning” in their 2018 tests.
Although some of the products showed improvement, most still contain high levels of heavy metals. (Read more about the new study here)
In January 2023, the FDA finally proposed lead limits as a result of these findings. (5)(6)
What are these proposed lead limits? Have the contaminated products been recalled? Did the baby food makers resolve the problem and compensate affected consumers?
Keep reading to get answers.
Alarming 2021 Congressional Report On Foods Known To Have Contained High Levels of Heavy Metals
In February 2021, a congressional report by the Congressional Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy called out major baby food manufacturers, including Gerber, for selling products tainted with dangerous levels of toxic heavy metals. (2)
These name brands were listed:
- Nurture, Inc. (Baby Food Recall and HappyTOT)
- Beech-Nut Nutrition Company (Beech-Nut)
- Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (Earth’s Best Organic)
- Gerber
- Campbell’s Plum Organics
- Walmart Inc. (Parent’s Choice)
- Sprout Foods, Inc. (Sprout Organic Foods)
None of the brands issued a recall after the Congressional Report was released.
In June and October of the same year, Beech-Nut and Parent’s Choice recalled some products due to high arsenic levels (see below). However, these recalls were done after routine tests, not due to the Subcommittee’s report.
Eight months later, the same subcommittee released a second baby food report in September 2021.
This follow-up report found that many of the same brands called out previously were still producing and under-reporting baby products that tested at much higher levels than considered safe.
According to the Congressional Report, Campbell, Walmart, and Sprout refused to cooperate. (2)
So, the Subcommittee expressed concern that these baby food companies might be hiding higher levels of toxic elements in their products. (2)
Nurture, Hain, Beech-Nut, and Gerber provided the House Subcommittee with their test results and internal product testing policies. (2)
But the Subcommittee was alarmed after these baby food manufacturers reported test results of products containing very high levels of heavy metals: (2)
- Inorganic arsenic
- Lead
- Cadmium
- Mercury
Their test results showed that the products had heavy metals several times the maximum allowable levels set by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration).
FDA maximum limits in ppb (parts per billion) for bottled water: (7)
- 10 ppb inorganic arsenic
- 5 ppb lead
- 5 ppb cadmium
FDA maximum limits for infant rice cereal:
- 100 ppb inorganic arsenic
EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) maximum limit for drinking water (may also apply to food):
- 2 ppb mercury
Instead of complying with regulators, these baby food manufacturers created internal standards that allowed dangerously high levels of toxic heavy metals: (2)
- Nurture (arsenic): 115 ppb
- Beech-Nut (arsenic): 3,000 ppb
- Beech-Nut (cadmium): 3,000 ppb
- Beech-Nut (lead): 5,000 ppb
- Hain (arsenic): 200 ppb
- Hain (lead): 200 ppb
- Hain (cadmium): 200 ppb
Nurture, Inc. (HappyBABY)
Inorganic Arsenic:
- Up to 180 ppb for Apple & Broccoli Puffs
- Up to 160 for Banana & Pumpkin Puffs
- Up to 160 for Strawberry & Beet Puffs
- Up to 100 ppb for more than 25% of all Nurture products
Lead:
- Up to 641 ppb for Blueberry Purple Carrot
- Up to 560 ppb for Multi-Grain Cereal Canister
- Up to 10 ppb for nearly 20% of all Nurture vegetable and rice products
Cadmium:
- Up to 49 ppb in Multi-Grain Cereal Canister
- Up to 36 ppb in Strawberry Raspberry
- Up to 5 ppb in 65% of baby products
Mercury:
- Up to 10 ppb in Brown Rice Cereal Canister
- Up to 9.8 ppb in Banana Sweet Potato
Findings/Response:
- Nurture is the only baby food manufacturer that regularly tests finished products for heavy metals. The others only test ingredients.
In response to the investigation, Nurture told the Subcommittee: (2)
“Our heavy metal testing is performed as part of our monitoring program and not as a condition of product release. All of the products that were tested were sold into commerce.”
Beech-Nut Nutrition Company (Beech-Nut)
Inorganic Arsenic:
- Up to 913.4 ppb in ingredients.
- Over 300 ppb in additives used in their products
Lead:
- Up to 886.9 ppb in ingredients.
Cadmium:
- Up to 344.55 ppb in its ingredients.
Mercury:
- No test for mercury.
Actions Taken:
- Beech-Nut set very high internal maximum levels for heavy metals. So, all their ingredients passed their internal standards but actually failed government regulations and federal standards. (2)
Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (Earth’s Best Organic)
Inorganic Arsenic:
- Up to 129 ppb in baby products
- Up to 309 ppb in ingredients
- The company only tested their ingredients, not the finished products.
Lead:
- Up to 352 ppb in ingredients (vitamin premix)
Cadmium:
- Up to 260 ppb in ingredients
Mercury:
- No test for mercury
Actions Taken:
- Hain admits to the Subcommittee that they’re only using “theoretical calculations” on their test results. (2)
Gerber
Inorganic Arsenic:
- Up to 90 ppb in tested ingredients from 67 batches of rice flour
Lead:
- Up to 48 ppb in ingredients (sweet potatoes)
Cadmium:
- Over 5 ppb in 75% of carrot ingredients
- Up to 87 ppb in some carrot batches
- The company doesn’t test the other ingredients for this heavy metal.
Mercury:
- No test for mercury.
Was There A Recall On Gerber Baby Food 2021?
No. Gerber didn’t issue a baby food recall in 2021.
According to the Congressional Report, it was concerning that companies such as Gerber failed to disclose the alarming results to the public.
They also kept these tainted products on the market thereby failing to protect consumers. (2)
Spearheading the subcommittee reports is Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, who released this statement on his official Instagram page:
“My Subcommittee’s investigation has pulled back the curtain on the baby food industry, and each revelation has been more damning than the last.
I’ve released a new report on toxic metals in baby food, including popular brands such as Gerber’s Infant Rice Cereal products containing dangerous levels of inorganic arsenic.
We trust these companies with our babies, and they have failed us.”
Campbell Soup Company (Plum Organics)
Inorganic Arsenic:
- Up to 3.1 ppb
Lead:
- Up to 5.6 ppb
Cadmium:
- Up to 2.3 ppb
Mercury:
- Less than 0.142 ppb
Actions Taken:
- Results are for Just Sweet Potato Organic Baby Food.
- The results above are from the Healthy Babies Bright Futures report. (1)
- Campbell refused to submit actual test results or standards/criteria they used for the tests. Instead, the company provided a report that each product “meets criteria” to the Subcommittee.
Walmart Inc. (Parent’s Choice)
Inorganic Arsenic:
- Up to 56.1 ppb in (A) Little Hearts Strawberry Yogurt Cereal Snack
- Up to 108 ppb in (B) Organic Strawberry Rice Rusks
Lead:
- Up to 5.2 ppb in (A)
- Up to 26.9 ppb in (B)
Cadmium:
- Up to 26.1 ppb in (A)
- Up to 2.4 ppb in (B)
Mercury:
- Up to 0.941 ppb in (A)
- Up to 2.05 ppb in (B)
Actions Taken:
- The above results are from the Healthy Babies Bright Futures report. (1)
- Walmart didn’t submit test results to the Subcommittee.
Sprout Foods, Inc. (Sprout Organic Foods)
Inorganic Arsenic:
- Up to 107 ppb
Lead:
- Up to 39.3 ppb
Cadmium:
- Up to 41.5 ppb
Mercury:
- Up to 1.31 ppb
Actions Taken:
- Results are for Organic Quinoa Puffs Baby Cereal Snack – Apple Kale.
- The results listed are from the Healthy Babies Bright Futures report. (1)
- Sprout never responded to the Subcommittee.
What You Should Know
- Healthy Babies Bright Futures and other organizations call for baby food manufacturers to set a goal of zero levels of inorganic arsenic in all baby foods.
- Consumer Reports suggest changing maximum inorganic arsenic levels to 3 ppb in baby foods. That’s lower than the current FDA and EPA limit of 10 ppb.
- Consumer Reports also wants to lower cadmium limits to 1 ppb in fruit juices.
What Can You Do?
The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) advises offering your baby a variety of foods to reduce the levels of lead and other toxic heavy metals in their diet. (8)
Healthy Babies Bright Futures and Consumer Reports recommend the following healthier food options for young children: (1)
High-Risk Food: Snacks (including puffs) made from rice flour
Heavy Metals: Arsenic, lead, and cadmium
Healthier Alternatives:
- Rice-free packaged snacks
- Multi-grain snacks
- Apples
- Applesauce (unsweetened)
- Bananas
- Barley with diced vegetables
- Beans
- Cheese
- Grapes
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Peaches
- Yogurt
High-Risk Food: Rice rusks and teething biscuits
Heavy Metals: Arsenic, lead, and cadmium
Healthier Alternatives:
- Frozen banana
- Peeled and chilled cucumber
High-Risk Food: Single grain rice cereal
Heavy Metals: Arsenic
Healthier Alternatives:
- Non-rice and multi-grain cereals
- Oatmeal
- Corn
- Barley
- Quinoa
High-Risk Food: Fruit juices from apple, pear, grape, and others
Heavy Metals: Lead and arsenic
Healthier Alternatives:
- Whole or pureed fruits (applesauce)
High-Risk Food: Carrots and sweet potatoes
Heavy metals: Lead and cadmium
Healthier Alternatives:
- These vegetables are important in your baby’s diet.
- They’re rich in vitamin A and other nutrients.
- Limit your baby’s intake of these vegetables.
- Serve these vegetables with others so they won’t be taken in excess.
Safer Baby Food Brands
We’ve found the following baby food brands to be safe alternatives:
- Serenity Kids
- Little Spoon (subscription-based)
- Once Upon A Farm
- Cerebelly
- Amara
- Yumi
Which Baby Foods Do Not Contain Heavy Metals?
Here are our recommendations for healthier baby food products that are free from harmful chemicals, including heavy metals:
Serenity Kids
Read our Editor-in-Chief’s interview with Serenity Kids’ founders here.
Bison Baby Food Pouch with Organic Squash
Grass Feed Beef & Ginger with Organic Pea, Bell Pepper and Broccoli
Cerebelly
Kale Sweet Potato Apple Puree
Beet Carrot Blueberry with Coconut Milk Puree
Amara
Potato and Kale Mash
Ancient Grain Cereal with Fruit Bites
Little Spoon
Pitaya Coconut Bowl Baby Blend
Quinoa Raspberry Pudding Baby Blend
Once Upon A Farm
Organic Plant-Rich Meals
Advanced Nutrition Power Bowl
Baby Food Safety Act Of 2021
US PIRG (Public Interest Research Group) and Consumer Reports call on Congress to pass the Baby Food Safety Act of 2021. (9)
This law will require the FDA to adopt stricter limits for baby foods.
It will also require baby food manufacturers to test and disclose test results to parents and regulators.
Baby Food Recall (News & Updates)
Lawsuit Filed Against Baby Food Companies
Update: March 10, 2023
A lawsuit filed in Southern California against the baby food companies in the Congressional report by Attorney Pedram Esfandiary’s group alleges that these tainted foods can cause ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) and autism. (10)
The case was given the go-signal after Esfandiary’s team invited experts to explain how heavy metals interact with the brain. (10)
FDA Announces New Food Safety Unit
Update: February 2, 2023
The FDA plans to create a new food safety unit called the Human Foods Program that will focus on the importance of nutrition. The deputy commissioner for human foods is expected to have clear decision-making authority to ensure the US food supply’s safety. (11)
This new unit is also tasked to improve US nutrition in the wake of the possibly declining life expectancy due to chronic diseases linked with poor nutrition, FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf explains. (11)
FDA Proposes Lead Limits In Baby Food
Update: January 26, 2023
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) proposed the following lead level limits for baby food for children under two years old: (5)(6)
- Lower than 10 ppb (parts per billion) in yogurts, fruits, meat, custards and puddings, most vegetables, and mixed meals, including grain and meat-based mixtures
- Maximum of 20 ppb in dry infant cereals and root vegetables (i.e., sweet potatoes, beets, and carrots) because they grow underground and potentially absorb more lead from the soil than the other sources
The agency estimates that these can reduce young children’s dietary lead exposure by around 24-27%. (5)(6)
Baby food safety advocates like Consumer Reports and Healthy Babies Bright Futures acknowledge that this is important progress. (5)(6)
However, they want the limits to be lowered further, explaining that there isn’t a safe level for lead exposure, yet it can have a serious impact on children’s health, including: (5)(6)
- Neurological and developmental impairment
- Reduced IQ
- Behavior problems
- ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)
They also point out that other heavy metals have been detected in baby food, including mercury and cadmium. Still, these aren’t addressed by the FDA’s new proposal. (5)(6)
Baby Food Recall Summary
Are There Baby Food Recalls in 2023?
Update: November 15, 2023
Yes. WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée pouches were recalled in October 2023 (see below). Although this brand is not specifically a baby food, these food pouches may be fed to babies and young children.
Wanabana Fruit Puree Recall
- Date Recalled: October 29, 2023
- Company Name: WanaBana USA
- Reasons For Recall: Elevated lead levels in several products tested, with four cases of children showing potential acute lead toxicity (elevated blood levels of lead in their blood) (35)
- Affected Products: WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée pouches
- Return or Refund Processing: [email protected]
Over 1.7 million units of these fruit purees (flavor: apple cinnamon), sold in 3-pack pouches of 2.5 oz each, are affected by this recall. (35)
Here’s a list of the affected batch numbers and their respective number of recalled units:
Was There A Baby Food Recall In 2021?
Yes. Three baby food brands recalled their products in 2021:
- Parent’s Choice Rice Baby Cereal
- Beech-Nut Single Grain Rice Cereal
- Peppa Pig Chocolate Chip Cookies Gable Box
Learn more about these recalls below.
Parent’s Choice Rice Baby Cereal
- Date Recalled: October 08, 2021
- Reasons For Recall: The products tested above government standards for naturally occurring inorganic arsenic during routine testing (12)
- Company: Maple Island Inc.
- Return or Refund Processing: Call 1-800-369-1022 or email at [email protected]
Affected products are 8-oz. packages of Parent’s Choice Rice Baby Cereal (UPC number 00681131082907) from these lots: (12)
- Lot 21083 with a best-if-used-by date of June 24, 2022
- Lot 21084 with a best-if-used-by date of June 25, 2022
- Lot 21242 with a best-if-used-by date of November 30, 2022
No illnesses have been reported in this recall and no other Parent’s Choice products have been affected. (12)
Beech-Nut Single Grain Rice Cereal
- Date Recalled: June 8, 2021
- Company Name: Beech-Nut
- Reasons For Recall: High arsenic levels
- Affected Products: UPC Code# 52200034705; Product codes 103470XXXX and 093470XXXX; Expiration date 01 MAY 2022 (13)
- Return or Refund Processing: www.beechnut.com/ricecereal or 1-866-272-9417
Statement from Jason Jacobs, Beech-Nut’s vice president for food safety and quality: (14)
“The safety of infants and children is Beech-Nut’s top priority. We are issuing this voluntary recall because we learned through routine sampling by the State of Alaska that a limited quantity of Beech-Nut Single Grain Rice Cereal products had levels of naturally-occurring inorganic arsenic above the FDA guidance level, even though the rice flour used to produce these products tested below the FDA guidance level for inorganic arsenic.”
Peppa Pig Chocolate Chip Cookies Gable Box
- Date Recalled: May 20, 2021
- Company Name: Primary Colors Design Corp.
- Reasons For Recall: Undeclared egg content (allergen)
- Affected Products: UPC 84512050159; lot 091820; expiration date 09/18/2021 (15)
- Return or Refund Processing: [email protected] or 419-903-0403
Baby Food Recall 2020
Lidl Lupilu Pouches (UK)
- Date Recalled: February 12, 2020
- Company Name: Lidl
- Reasons For Recall: Possible presence of mold (16)
- Return or Refund Processing: Return to store for a refund
Affected Products (all batches/lots of these Lupilu pouches):
- Apples & Strawberries, Stage 1
- Bananas & Apples, Stage 1
- Banana & Peaches, Stage 1
- Apples, Carrots, & Parsnips, Stage 1
- Butternut Squash, Apples, Carrots & Prunes, Stage 1
- Sweet Potato, Pumpkin, Apples & Blueberries, Stage 1
- Organic Apple, Stage 1
- Banana Yoghurt with Oats & Rice, Stage 2
- Banana, Blueberries, & Rice, Stage 2
- Mango Yoghurt with Oats & Rice, Stage 2
Cow & Gate Baby Food Jars (UK)
- Date Recalled: January 25, 2020
- Company Name: Cow & Gate; Tesco
- Reasons For Recall: Possible tampering of these products in Tesco stores in the UK (United Kingdom). (17)
- Return or Refund Processing: Tesco Customer Services (0800-917-6897) or Cow & Gate (0800-977-8880).
Affected Products (all batches/lots of Cow & Gate 7+ months variants in 200g jars):
- Butternut Squash Chicken & Pasta
- Courgette & Hake Rice
- Creamy Cauliflower Cheese
- Garden Pea & Turkey
- Potato Spinach & Beef
- Potato & Turkey Roast
- Spaghetti Bolognese
- Succulent Pork Casserole
- Tasty Cottage Pie
- Tomato & Courgette Pasta
- Yummy Harvest Chicken
- Apple Crumble
- Banana Crumble
- Peach Apple & Kiwi
- Rice Pudding
Baby Food Recall 2019
Herbal Tea for Infants by Mountain Mel’s
- Date Recalled: August 29, 2019
- Company Name: Mountain Mel’s Essential Goods, LLC
- Reasons For Recall: Possible contamination with Salmonella (bacteria that causes fever, diarrhea, and muscle cramps). (18)
- Return or Refund Processing: [email protected] or 503-564-9135.
Affected Products (all stamped with “best before date: 7/2021”):
- The Milk Lady’s Tea; UPC 7-99632-05658-4 with LOT# ML6271950
- Peaceful Baby Herbal Tea; UPC 7-99632-05656-0 with LOT# PB781950
- Diges-Teas Herbal Tea; UPC 7-99632-05665-2 with LOT# DT7619100
Heinz Turkey Stew 8+ Baby Food (Canada)
- Date Recalled: August 16, 2019
- Company Name: Kraft Heinz Canada
- Reasons For Recall: Possible presence of insects
- Affected Products: UPC 0-572200-6; product code 2021JN04 (19)
- Return or Refund Processing: [email protected] or 1-866-572-3809
Cow & Gate Cheesy Broccoli Bake, Stage 3 (UK)
- Date Recalled: May 13, 2019
- Company Name: Cow & Gate
- Reasons For Recall: May contain small pieces of blue rubber (20)
- Affected Products: Batch code 28122020, best before date: 28 December 2020
- Return or Refund Processing: live chat at www.cgbabyclub.co.uk/contact-us or call 0800-977-4000
Baby Food Recall 2018
Love Child Organics (Canada)
- Date Recalled: May 26, 2018
- Company Name: CGL FDS, Greenspace Brands Inc.
- Reasons For Recall: Packaging defects may allow entry of spoilage microorganisms (21)
- Return or Refund Processing: Return to the store where you got them.
Affected Products (all with best before date code: 2019MA25):
- Vegetarian Chili with Sweet Potato + Kale; UPC 85886000170
- Veggie Casserole with Lentils + Quinoa; UPC 85886000171
- Ratatouille with Lentils + White Beans; UPC 85886000172
- Pumpkin Risotto with Spinach + Chickpeas; UPC 85886000173
- Mango Chicken Stew with Spinach + Quinoa; UPC 85886000174
- Thanksgiving Dinner with Veggies + Turkey; UPC 85886000175
- Hearty Bolognese with Beef + Quinoa; UPC 85886000176
PC Organics Baby Food Recall (Canada)
- Date Recalled: May 26, 2018
- Company Name: CGL FDS, Greenspace Brands Inc.
- Reasons For Recall: Packaging defects may cause spoilage (21)
- Return or Refund Processing: Return to the store where you purchased them.
Affected Products (all strained baby foods with best before date code: 2019MA25):
- Carrots; UPC 060383172800
- Parsnip; UPC 060383172817
- Peas; UPC 060383172824
- Sweet Potatoes; UPC 060383172831
- Vegetables & Turkey; UPC 060383174408
- Fruity Chicken; UPC 060383174415
- Spaghetti Bolognese; UPC 060383193201
- Vegetable & Lentil; UPC 060383193218
- Chicken Casserole; UPC 060383193225
Baby Food Recall 2017
Yummy Spoonfuls Chicken and Vegetable Products
- Date Recalled: June 24, 2017
- Company Name: Overhill Farms, Inc.
- Reasons For Recall: Possible presence of crushed chicken bones (22)
- Return or Refund Processing: (844)-986-6948
Affected Products:
- Chicken & Carrot Bites; with best before dates 02/01/18, 02/09/18, & 4/26/2018.
- Chicken & Sweet Potato Bites; with best before dates 02/01/18 & 02/09/18.
- Chicken & Broccoli Bites; with best before dates 08/30/17, 02/20/18, & 4/10/18.
Fully Cooked Organic Chicken and Vegetable Products
- Date Recalled: June 24, 2017
- Company Name: Overhill Farms, Inc.
- Reasons For Recall: Possible presence of crushed chicken bones (22)
- Return or Refund Processing: (844)-986-6948
Affected Products:
- Chicken & Vegetable Patty; case code 320422 with packaging date 08/30/16.
- Chicken Patties with Carrots and Cauliflower; case code 320460 with packaging date 02/09/17.
- Chicken Patties with Sweet Potatoes, Quinoa, and Peas; case code 320430 with packaging dates 02/09/17 and 04/25/17.
Gerber Cheese Ravioli Pasta Pick-Ups
- Date Recalled: March 08, 2017
- Company Name: Gerber Products Company
- Reasons For Recall: Undeclared egg allergen components on the product label. (23)
- Affected Products: UPC code 159070
- Return or Refund Processing: 1-800-510-7494
PC Organics Baby Food Recall (Canada & US)
- Date Recalled: February 07, 2017
- Company Name: Loblaw Companies Limited
- Reasons For Recall: Manufacturing error may cause the growth of Clostridium botulinum (bacteria that causes food poisoning). (24)
- Return or Refund Processing: Return to the store
Affected Products (all are strained baby foods or puree snacks)
- Apple, Blueberry & Green Pea; UPC 060383062927
- Apple Crisp Muffin flavor; UPC 060383137304
- Apple, Carrot, Apricot & Millet; UPC 06038306996
- Banana, Sweet Potato & Blueberry; UPC 06038305362
- Apple; UPC 060383028404
- Apple, Banana & Blueberry with Yogurt; UPC 06038304491
- Apple, Banana & Strawberry with Yogurt; UPC 06038304488
- Apple Cherry; UPC 06038302843
- Sweet Potato, Apple and Mango; UPC 06038306294
- Peach Maple Cobbler Flavour; UPC 060383137328
- Banana Apple & Carrot; UPC 06038305363
- Pumpkin, Apple, Peach & Buckwheat; 06038306995
- Prune, Apple, Butternut Squash & Quinoa; UPC 06038306994
- Pear; UPC 06038302842
- Mango, Apple, Carrot & Peach; UPC 06038305369
- Blackberry Cobbler Flavour; UPC 060383137311
- Banana & Kiwi; UPC 060383028466
- Mango; UPC 060383028411
- Banana & Raspberry; UPC 060383054809
- Banana, Apple, Apricot & Rice; UPC 06038305368
- Banana Bread Flavour; UPC 060383135898
- Pear, Apple and Broccoli; UPC 06038306291
- Sweet Potato, Banana & Apricot; UPC 06038305366
- Tropical Twist Smoothie with Greek Yogurt; UPC 060383154301
- Banana, Mango & Apple with Yogurt; UPC 06038304489
- Orange Twist Smoothie with Greek Yogurt; UPC 060383154318
- Prunes; UPC 060383169633
- Apple, Banana & Strawberry with Yogurt; UPC 060383184278
- Sweet Potato, Apple and Mango; UPC 060383184292
- Banana Apple & Carrot; UPC 060383184285
- Mango; UPC 060383184308
- Pear, Apple, and Broccoli; UPC 060383184261
Baby Food Recall 2016
H-E-B Baby Food Recall
- Date Recalled: November 18, 2016
- Company Name: H-E-B
- Reasons For Recall: Possible contamination with rubber (25)
- Return or Refund Processing: 1‑855‑432‑4438
Affected Products:
- Banana Passion Fruit; UPC 4122081488
- Banana Pineapple Mango; UPC 4122084761
- Green Beans; UPC 4122005670
- Banana Apple; UPC 4122000208
- Green Beans Corn; UPC 4122005671
- Banana; UPC 4122083207
- Squash, Sweet Corn, & Tomato; UPC 4122066357
- Pear, Carrot, & Blueberry; UPC 4122005673
- Peas & Carrots; UPC 4122005685
- Vegetable Chickpea Mix; UPC 4122005668
- Banana, Carrot, & Mango; UPC 4122025540
- Apple, Carrot, Pumpkin, & Zucchini; UPC 4122054253
- Sweet Potato, Pumpkin, & Zucchini; UPC 4122066026
- Peas; UPC4122005684
- Apple; UPC 4122081487
- Pear Pineapple, & Zucchini; UPC 4122018455
- Pear, Peas, & Zucchini; UPC 4122079172
- Sweet Potato; UPC 412200568
Gerber Organic 2ND FOODS Pouches
- Date Recalled: March 24, 2016
- Company Name:
- Reasons For Recall: Packaging defects may result in product spoilage during transport and handling. (26)
- Return or Refund Processing: 1-800-706-0556
Affected Products:
- Pears, Carrots & Peas; best before dates July 12, 2016 (batch code 51945335XX), and July 13, 2016 (batch code 51955335XX)
- Carrots, Apples & Mangoes; best before dates July 13, 2016 (batch code 51955335XX), and July 14, 2016 (batch code 51965335XX)
GoGo Squeez Applesauce Pouches
- Date Recalled: March 2016
- Company Name: Materne North America Corp.
- Reasons For Recall: Possible contamination from food product residues (27)
- Affected Products: Pouches with best before dates 12/4/15 to 3/4/17 and codes US01XXXX to US08XXXX.
- Return or Refund Processing: 1-844-275-5841 or visit voucher.gogosqueez.com
Baby Food Recall 2015
Beech-Nut CLASSICS Sweet Potato & Chicken
- Date Recalled: April 14, 2015
- Company Name: Beech-Nut Nutrition, Amsterdam, New York
- Reasons For Recall: Possible contamination with glass (28)
- Affected Products: Product numbers 12395750815 through 12395750821; product expiry date DEC 2016
- Return or Refund Processing: Return to store or call (518) 839-0300
Baby Formula Recall & Shortage 2022
Update: May 11, 2022
Aside from monitoring baby food recalls, it’s good to also stay updated with recent infant formula recalls and the on-going baby formula shortage.
Baby Formula Shortage 2022
Although prepared in liquid form, infant formula is also baby food.
That’s why the baby formula shortage of 2022 makes parents worried, especially after recent reports from research firm Datasembly showed that the nationwide out-of-stock rate has reached 43%. (29)
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), as many as 75% of babies in the US are likely given formula products by six months of age. (30)
Worried parents and caregivers are having a difficult time finding stocks, especially because formula retailers are also rationing available supplies.
Many areas, such as Texas and West Virginia, temporarily expanded the WIC program (Women, Infants and Children) to include other formula brands. (31)(32)
The baby formula shortage began during the pandemic and was first attributed to supply chain issues. However, the massive recall of Similac products worsened the shortage.
Similac Infant Formula Recall 2022
In February 2022, Abbott Nutrition issued two recall announcements after their products were linked to Cronobacter Sakazakii and Salmonella infection, which led to several hospitalizations and two infant deaths. (33)
The company also received multiple consumer complaints of infants getting sick after taking the formulas.
Infant formula products that are part of the recall: (34)
- First recall: Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare powdered infant formulas
- Second recall: One lot of Similac PM 60/40, with lot number 27032K80 (can) or 27032K800 (case)
Liquid formulas aren’t included in the recalled products.
Ingestion of infant formula contaminated with Cronobacter Sakazakii and Salmonella can lead to meningitis and sepsis. Symptoms can include the following: (33)
- Temperature changes
- Grunting breaths
- Unusual movements
- Irritability
- Poor feeding or no appetite
- Jaundice (yellow skin and whites of the eyes)
Newborns and young babies are more prone to experiencing serious symptoms. Call your healthcare provider if you notice any of these symptoms.
Although the infant deaths were determined to be due to Cronobacter Sakazakii infection, Abbott Nutrition maintains that the strains found in the investigation of the bacterial infections don’t match those in their facility in Sturgis, Michigan, and the recalled products. (34)
REFERENCES
(1) http://www.healthybabyfood.org/sites/healthybabyfoods.org/files/2019-10/BabyFoodReport_FULLREPORT_ENGLISH_R5b.pdf
(2) https://oversightdemocrats.house.gov/sites/democrats.oversight.house.gov/files/2021-02-04%20ECP%20Baby%20Food%20Staff%20Report.pdf
(3) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23570911/
(4) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4418502/
(5) https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/24/health/fda-lead-baby-food.html
(6) https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/baby-food/fda-proposes-new-limits-for-lead-in-baby-foods-a2167994237/
(7) https://www.fda.gov/food/metals-and-your-food/arsenic-food-and-dietary-supplements
(8) https://www.aappublications.org/news/2021/05/01/parentplus-babyfoodmetal050121
(9) https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/shopping/2021/06/09/beech-nut-baby-food-recall-2021-rice-cereal-arsenic/7621243002/
(10) https://fox17.com/news/spotlight-on-america/update-first-court-battle-over-toxic-metals-in-baby-food-set-for-trial-in-2023
(11) https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2023-01-31/after-baby-formula-scandal-fda-announces-new-unit-focused-on-food-safety
(12) https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/maple-island-inc-issues-voluntary-recall-three-lots-parents-choice-rice-baby-cereal
(13) https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/beech-nut-nutrition-company-issues-voluntary-recall-one-lot-beech-nut-single-grain-rice-cereal-and
(14) https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/wellness/story/beech-nut-stop-selling-specific-baby-rice-cereal-78196121
(15) https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/primary-colors-design-corp-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-peppa-pig-chocolate-chip-cookies
(16) https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-prin-08-2020
(17) https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-prin-03-2020
(18) https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mountain-mels-essential-goods-llc-recalls-milk-ladys-herbal-tea-blend-peaceful-baby-herbal-tea-blend
(19) https://inspection.canada.ca/food-recall-warnings-and-allergy-alerts/2019-08-16/eng/1566012117302/1566012119453?print=1#r08
(20) https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-prin-20-2019
(21) https://inspection.canada.ca/food-recall-warnings-and-allergy-alerts/2018-05-26/eng/1527371146055/1527371148679
(22) https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/overhill-farms-inc.-recalls-chicken-products-due-possible-foreign-matter
(23) https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gerber-issues-allergy-alert-clarify-egg-labeling-cheese-ravioli-pasta-pick-upsr
(24) https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/fda-posting-canadian-food-inspection-agencys-recall-notice-alert-us-consumers-who-may-have-purchased
(25) https://www.heb.com/static-page/article-template/heb-baby-food-recall-nov-2016
(26) http://news.gerber.com/news/gerber-is-voluntarily-recalling-two-batches-of-gerberR-organic-2nd-foodsR-pouches
(27) https://www.gogosqueez.com/recall/
(28) https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/beech-nut-nutrition-recalls-baby-food-product-due-possible-foreign-matter
(29) https://www.cbsnews.com/news/baby-formula-shortage-2022-states/
(30) https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/pdf/2020-Breastfeeding-Report-Card-H.pdf
(31) https://texaswic.org/about-wic/special-wic-food-updates
(32) https://dhhr.wv.gov/News/2022/Pages/WIC-Introduces-Additional-Flexibilities-Amid-Powdered-Infant-Formula-Recall.aspx
(33) https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-warns-consumers-not-use-certain-powdered-infant-formula-produced-abbott-nutritions-facility
(34) https://www.similacrecall.com/us/en/home.html
