CDC/FDA July 6 update: Infant botulism cases linked to recalled Nara formula

The CDC and FDA released their latest federal update on July 6, 2026 on a multistate infant botulism investigation tied to a recalled powdered infant formula sold under the Nara Organics brand.

In the July 6 update, the agencies say the investigation remains open, with 4 reported infant botulism cases and 4 hospitalizations. FDA also says additional testing is underway, with results expected in the coming weeks.

What’s new in the July 6 federal update

CDC and FDA report that four infants in three states (California, Pennsylvania, and Washington) were affected, with illness onset reported between April and May 2026. They also say the investigation is ongoing and that testing is underway on formula associated with the cases.

For context, FDA’s June 26, 2026 update reported three confirmed infant botulism illnesses linked to the same recalled formula. The July 6 update increased the total to four.

Which formula is involved (and what the recall covers)

The update centers on Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula. FDA’s recall posting says Nara Organics voluntarily recalled all lots of this powdered infant formula due to a potential risk of Clostridium botulinum contamination.

What caregivers should do now

CDC and FDA are consistent on one core step: do not feed infants the recalled formula.

• If you have unopened cans: CDC says to throw them away or return them.
• If you have an opened can: CDC says to take a picture and record the lot number and use-by date. CDC says to consider keeping the formula in case the state health department wants to test it if your infant develops symptoms. If you keep it, write “DO NOT USE” on it, store it away from other items you feed your baby for at least a month, and if no symptoms appear after a month, throw the leftover formula away.

CDC also says to wash items and surfaces that may have touched the recalled formula using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.

Warning signs that require urgent medical care

CDC says infant botulism often starts with constipation and is usually first noticed as difficulty feeding (including trouble sucking and swallowing), a weak or altered cry, and loss of muscle tone.

But CDC’s guidance for immediate medical care is specific. If an infant consumed Nara Organics infant formula and has any of these signs or symptoms, CDC says to seek urgent medical care:

• Poor feeding
• Loss of head control
• Difficulty swallowing
• Decreased facial expression

CDC cautions that symptoms can take as long as several weeks to develop, and advises caregivers to watch for symptoms for a month after the infant last consumed the product.

What to watch next

FDA describes the work as ongoing. Testing is underway, and FDA says it expects to post additional updates as information becomes available. For families, the practical takeaway is to treat this as a time-sensitive safety issue: stop using the recalled formula, follow CDC’s handling steps for unopened versus opened cans, and get urgent medical care if symptoms appear.

Sources

• CDC: Infant botulism outbreak linked to powdered infant formula (July 6, 2026 update)
• FDA: Outbreak investigation of infant botulism linked to powdered infant formula (current update July 6, 2026)