The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning parents in New York and nationwide about a recalled baby food product due to potential health risks.
Initiative Foods recalled one lot of its “Tippy Toes” Apple Pear Banana Fruit Puree on Feb. 13 after testing found elevated levels of patulin, a naturally occurring toxin produced by mold that can grow on fruits such as apples.
According to the company, long-term exposure to patulin may cause health problems.
The recalled product is marked with “BB 07/17/2026” and package code “INIA0120.” It was distributed to grocery stores in every U.S. state except Alaska and may also have been sold in Guam and Puerto Rico.
“At Initiative Foods, the safety of our consumers and their families is our highest priority,” CEO and President Don Ephgrave said in a statement. “We are cooperating with the FDA to ensure strict review and enhanced safety measures across all our products.”
Here’s what to know.
What baby food product is being recalled?
The recall applies to one specific lot of “Tippy Toes” Apple Pear Banana Fruit Puree made by Initiative Foods (also known as IF Copack LLC).
Not all “Tippy Toes” products are affected. Only packages stamped with:
What is patulin?
Patulin is a toxin produced by certain molds that can grow on fruits, particularly apples. The FDA’s Total Diet Study detected higher-than-normal levels of patulin in this specific lot of the puree.
Long-term exposure to patulin may lead to health issues such as:
The FDA said no illnesses or injuries have been reported so far.
Is New York affected?
Yes.
The recalled product was distributed nationwide, including New York grocery stores. Parents who purchased this product in New York should check the packaging to see if it matches the recalled lot.
What should consumers do?
If you have “Tippy Toes” Apple Pear Banana Fruit Puree with a best by date of July 17, 2026:
For more information, customers can call 1-855-215-5730 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time.
— Madison Scott is a journalist with the Democrat and Chronicle who covers breaking and trending news for the Finger Lakes Region. She has an interest in how the system helps or doesn’t help families with missing loved ones. She can be reached at MDScott@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Popular baby food recalled over toxin risk. What parents should know
Reporting by Madison Scott, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
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