Target is recalling several Up & Up baby wipes sold nationwide after FDA testing found bacteria that health officials said could cause serious and potentially life-threatening infections. The voluntary recall, announced Friday, covers certain lots of fragrance-free and fresh cucumber scented wipes that were sold in stores and on Target.com.
The recall is drawing attention because the wipes are used mainly on newborns, infants and young children, the people most vulnerable if the contamination reaches beyond the skin. Target said the action was taken out of an abundance of caution, but the FDA said its testing found Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli in samples of the affected products.
The recalled items include multiple sizes of Up & Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes in 20-count, 72-count, 216-count, 800-count and 1,200-count packages, along with Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes in 72-count, 216-count and 800-count packages. The wipes were manufactured by supplier Sapro Temizlik Urunleri and sold at Target stores nationwide and through Target.com.
Target and the manufacturer have also received consumer complaints and adverse event reports alleging product discoloration, skin irritation, eye irritation and infections that may be linked to use of the wipes. Those reports remain under investigation, leaving open how widespread any harm may be and how many cases are connected to the products.
Health officials warned that healthy people who use the contaminated wipes on skin with minor cuts or abrasions may develop localized infections. For newborns, infants and immunocompromised individuals, the concern is more serious: the infection could spread into the bloodstream and potentially lead to sepsis or pneumonia.
Consumers are being urged to stop using the recalled wipes immediately and return them to any Target store for a full refund. Customers seeking more information can contact Target Guest Relations at 1-800-440-0680.
