Pasadena Public Health Warns Against Nara Organics Infant Formula After Botulism Outbreak

PASADENA, Calif.- The Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) is alerting parents and caregivers to immediately stop using Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula, which has been voluntarily recalled following a multistate outbreak of infant botulism. Pasadena retailers have been notified, and the formula should no longer be available locally. At this time, no cases of infant botulism have been reported in Pasadena.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the California Department of Public Health are investigating the outbreak. As of June 13, 2026, three infants from California, Pennsylvania, and Washington have been hospitalized with infant botulism after consuming Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula. All infants received treatment, and no deaths have been reported. Officials have collected leftover infant formula for testing and results are pending.

On June 13, Nara Organics recalled all of its Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula products, including every lot number and can size sold nationwide at Target stores.

"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."

Infant Botulism Symptoms and Risks

Infant botulism is a rare but serious illness that occurs when spores grow in a baby's intestine and release toxins that affect the nervous system. Early symptoms can appear days or weeks after exposure and may include constipation, weak or altered cry, poor feeding, decreased facial expression, drooping eyelids, and loss of head control. Without treatment, infant botulism can progress to breathing difficulties and may require hospitalization.

What Parents and Caregivers Should Do

• Stop using any Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Infant Formula immediately.
• Discard unopened cans or return them to the retailer.
• For opened cans, take a photo of the lot number and use-by date. Label the container DO NOT USE and store in a safe place away from other food items for 30 days in case testing is needed.
• Monitor your infant for symptoms for 30 days after their last exposure to the formula.
• After 30 days with no symptoms, discard any leftover formula safely and wash all items or surfaces that came into contact with it using hot, soapy water.
• If your infant shows any signs of botulism, such as poor feeding, a weak cry, or loss of head control, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.