United States: Target recalls Up & Up baby wipes after FDA finds bacteria
Target recalled two Up & Up baby wipe lines nationwide after FDA testing found bacteria in samples, with infants and immunocompromised users most at risk.
Target has recalled two Up & Up baby wipe lines sold nationwide after FDA testing found Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli in product samples. The recall matters for families because the wipes were sold in Target stores and on Target.com across the United States, and the FDA says the bacteria could cause serious infection, especially for newborns, infants, young children and people with weakened immune systems.
What is included in the recall
The recall is limited to specific Up & Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes and Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes, not every Target brand wipe. Target says the affected product lines include Fragrance Free wipes in 20-, 72-, 216-, 800- and 1200-count packs and Fresh Cucumber Scented wipes in 72-, 216- and 800-count packs. The company says the recall applies to specific manufacturing date codes and expiration dates, so shoppers should check the package details before assuming a package is affected.
Why health officials are concerned
According to the FDA notice, Target is recalling the wipes after customer complaints of discoloration and FDA testing that identified the bacteria in product samples. The FDA says the concern is not just contamination in the package itself but the chance that a contaminated wipe used on skin could infect vulnerable users. The greatest risk is for babies, especially newborns, and for people whose immune systems are already weakened.
What parents and caregivers should do
If a package matches the recalled product name and code, stop using it right away. Target says consumers can return recalled wipes to any Target store for a full refund. That is the clearest next step for parents, caregivers and anyone who bought these wipes for home use, daycare or travel. The recall is narrow, but because the products were sold nationwide, it affects shoppers in every state.
What to watch next
Target says it is coordinating with the manufacturer and continuing to investigate the complaints tied to the wipes. The main update to watch for is whether the recall expands to more lot codes or whether Target and the FDA add new instructions as the investigation continues. For now, the safest approach is simple: check the package, stop using any matching wipes, and seek a refund.
