Infant formula recall check: what to do with your can

What does the evidence say about checking an infant formula recall?

1. FDA’s recall and safety-alert page is a starting point, not a complete all-clear list. FDA notes that not every recall has a press release on that page. Open the product-specific notice and any updates, and compare the identifiers on the container itself. 1
2. The FDA’s August 27, 2026 update on the Nara Organics outbreak says the outbreak ended but still instructs families to discard remaining recalled product. An ended outbreak does not make an affected can appropriate to use. Check the live notice for current instructions. 2
3. Inspect formula containers for damage and use-by dates, but recognize that a recall is an additional check. Follow the notice even if powder looks and smells ordinary. Keep the lot and product information available when contacting the manufacturer or healthcare team. 3
4. A replacement must fit the infant’s feeding needs. Families using hypoallergenic, amino acid, premature, or metabolic formula should ask the care team to identify a suitable substitute. Homemade mixtures and toddler drinks should not bridge the gap. 4
5. Poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing, or decreased facial expression after exposure described in the botulism notice needs immediate healthcare assessment. Breathing difficulty is an emergency. Do not wait for a product refund before seeking care. 2

What should you do when a recall is announced?

• When an alert arrives, set the suspect product aside while you match all container identifiers.
• If your can is affected, stop using it and follow the current notice’s return, disposal, and cleaning instructions.
• Before the next feed, arrange an appropriate replacement; seek immediate care for illness rather than waiting for the recall process.

Questions to discuss with your care team