Target Recalls 2 Types of Up&Up Baby Wipes Due to Microbial Contamination That Could Cause Illness

Customers had reported signs of discoloration in the products, as well as skin irritation and infections in babies who used them, prompting the Food and Drug Administration to conduct bacterial and contaminant testing. While the bacteria pose little risk to healthy people beyond a “local infection” if used on broken skin, the FDA says, the risks are greater for newborns, babies, and young children—those for whom baby wipes are primarily designed—as they have still-developing immune systems. In people at higher risk of infection, the bacteria can cause sepsis or pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. The bacteria thrive in damp environments, such as water sources and moist products (like baby wipes), and have been found to be resistant to some forms of antibiotics, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, making it difficult to treat. 

In a press release, Target said the recalled wipes were manufactured by a supply company, Sapro Temizlik Urunleri. According to the recall notice, both Target and Sapro Temizlik Urunleri have received “a number of consumer complaints and adverse event reports” about the wipes, including product discoloration and symptoms in those who have used the product, such as skin and eye irritation and infections that could be potentially associated. The reports are still under investigation, the FDA notice says. Several reports listed on SaferProducts.gov, the government website for reporting product issues, mention rashes and fungal infections related to using Target Up&Up baby wipes.

Consumer Reports asked Target about consumer complaints about the wipes, including the number and timing of complaints received, and whether any serious health issues have been reported. CR also asked whether the manufacturer, Sapro Temizlik Urunleri, supplied any other types of baby wipes or products for Target. “We care deeply about the safety of our guests and our products,” a Target spokesperson responded in an email. “Out of an abundance of caution, Target has voluntarily recalled Up&Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes and Up&Up Fresh Cucumber Baby Wipes. For additional information, including refunds and impacted product information, please view the release.”

Symptoms of infection with B. cepacia complex or B. gladioli may be absent or can range from fever and fatigue to respiratory infections. The bacteria can be especially dangerous for those with cystic fibrosis. If you have concerns about any symptoms your baby or young child is showing, contact your pediatrician. If you have the wipes included in the recall (see item numbers below), photograph the package item numbers and sell-by dates so you have a record of the product information in the rare case that your child gets sick. You can return them to Target stores for a full refund.