Target is recalling several Up & Up baby wipes products sold nationwide after customer complaints and FDA testing found up & up baby wipes contamination tied to two bacteria. The recall covers certain Fragrance Free and Fresh Cucumber Scented wipes sold in multiple package sizes. Consumers are being told to stop using the wipes and return them for a full refund.
Target and FDA Findings
The Friday recall covers certain lots of Up & Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes and Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes after product discoloration complaints. FDA testing found Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli in samples of the affected wipes, and the agency said products with those bacteria could cause serious and potentially life-threatening infections.
Target said the recalled Fragrance Free wipes come in 20-count, 72-count, 216-count, 800-count and 1,200-count packages. The recalled Fresh Cucumber Scented wipes come in 72-count, 216-count and 800-count packages. Target said the wipes were sold at stores nationwide and through Target.com.
Health Risk for Infants
The FDA said healthy people who use contaminated wipes on skin with minor cuts or abrasions may develop localized infections. It said infections in immunocompromised individuals, newborns and infants could spread into the bloodstream and potentially cause sepsis or pneumonia. The wipes are used on newborns, infants and young children, who the FDA said are particularly vulnerable because of their developing immune systems.
Target and the manufacturer, Sapro Temizlik Urunleri, have received consumer complaints and adverse event reports alleging discoloration, skin irritation, eye irritation and infections that may be linked to use of the wipes. Those reports remain under investigation.
What Customers Should Do
Consumers are being urged to stop using the recalled wipes immediately and return them to any Target store for a full refund. A Target spokesperson said, “We care deeply about the safety of our guests and our products. Out of an abundance of caution, Target has voluntarily recalled Up&Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes and Up&Up Fresh Cucumber Baby Wipes”
Customers seeking more information can contact Target Guest Relations at 1-800-440-0680. Anyone with the affected wipes at home should check the package count and scent against the recalled sizes before using them again.
