Target recalls Up & Up baby wipes after FDA detects life-threatening bacteria
Target announced a voluntary recall of its Up and Up Fragrance Free and Fresh Cucumber Scented baby wipes on June fifth, twenty twenty-six. The recall came after customers reported product discoloration, prompting FDA testing that identified harmful bacteria in samples. The FDA found the presence of Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli, naturally occurring bacteria that can cause serious infections. In healthy people, these bacteria typically cause localized skin infections. However, in newborns, infants, and young children with developing immune systems, infections can spread to the bloodstream, potentially causing sepsis or pneumonia. The recalled wipes were manufactured by Turkish supplier Sapro Temizlik Urunleri and sold nationwide at Target stores and online. Target received complaints about discoloration and symptoms including skin irritation, eye irritation, and infections. The company is offering full refunds at any Target store. The bacteria involved can be difficult to treat because they show resistance to some antibiotics.
Key facts
- FDA identified Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli bacteria in product samples
- Contaminated wipes were manufactured between November 7, 2025 and May 5, 2026 (Fragrance Free variety)
- Affected products include 20, 72, 216, 800, and 1200-count packages of Fragrance Free and 72, 216, and 800-count of Fresh Cucumber variant
- Bacteria can cause sepsis or pneumonia in immunocompromised individuals and young children with immature immune systems
- Manufacturer is Turkish supplier Sapro Temizlik Urunleri; wipes sold at Target stores nationwide and Target.com
- Target issued voluntary recall out of abundance of caution; full refunds available at any Target store
Limits of this briefing
No information available on actual number of confirmed infections, hospitalizations, or adverse health outcomes reported. Left-leaning and right-leaning political perspectives on this issue were not identified in major media coverage, suggesting this is being treated primarily as a consumer safety matter rather than a partisan issue.
Sources
- ABC News: Target voluntarily recalls some baby wipes due to potential contamination Centre
- Fox Business: Target recalls popular baby wipes after FDA finds potentially harmful bacteria Centre
- Consumer Reports: Target Recalls 2 Types of Up&Up Baby Wipes Due to Microbial Contamination Centre
- CBS News Minnesota: Target voluntarily recalling 2 types of baby wipes over contamination concerns Centre
- FDA: Target Recalls Up & Up Fragrance Free and Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes Due to Potential Microbial Contamination Centre