Baby fruit purée recalled over elevated toxin levels, FDA says

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"Tippy Toes" Apple Pear Banana Fruit purée was recalled for elevated levels of patulin, a toxin that may cause serious health risks. (Photo courtesy of the Food and Drug Administration)

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A recall has been issued for a brand of baby fruit purée after prominent levels of patulin, a toxin that can pose severe health risks with long-term exposure.

So far, there have been no reports of injuries or illnesses resulting from consuming the baby food product, according to a Food and Drug Administration recall notice published on Feb. 13. 

RELATED: Peanut butter products recalled in 40 states over 'foreign material' contamination

Food and Drug Administration officials added that patulin is a naturally occurring substance produced by molds that may grow in various fruits, including apples. 

The agency added that long-term exposure from ingestion of patulin may result in "adverse health consequences, including a potential for immune suppression, nerve damage, headache, fever, and nausea."

What baby fruit purée product is recalled?

Why you should care:

Initiative Foods recalled one lot of its "Tippy Toes" Apple Pear Banana Fruit purée. Food and Drug Administration officials said the "Best By" (expiration) date is found on the bottom of each plastic tub. The recalled product will have a date stamped as "BB 07/17/2026."

Initiative Foods released a statement about the recall, writing: "At Initiative Foods, the safety of our consumers and their families is our highest priority. We are cooperating with the FDA to ensure strict review and enhanced safety measures across all our products. We thank our retail partners and customers for their understanding and prompt action on this matter," Don Ephgrave, Initiative Foods’ CEO and President, said in a statement. 

If I have the baby food item, what should I do with it?

What you can do:

Consumers with the baby fruit purée are urged to stop using the item and immediately throw it away or return it to the store where it was purchased for a refund. If there are health concerns related to consumption of the product, call your healthcare provider.