A recall has been issued for Banana raisin oatmeal organic whole grain baby cereal from Baby Gourmet Organic, based in Calgary, Canada, due to potential contamination with Cronobacter, a bacterium that can cause serious and even life-threatening infections, such as sepsis or meningitis.
Background
The recall was initiated after testing by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) uncovered the presence of potential Cronobacter contamination.
The recalled product was distributed nationwide across Canada.
No other Baby Gourmet Organic products are affected by this recall.
Product Details
- Product Name – Baby Gourmet Organic Banana raisin oatmeal organic whole grain baby cereal
- Size – 227 grams
- UPC – 6 28619 10003 6
- Lot Code – 24122bROAC G 2
- Best By Date – April 3, 2025 (“2025AL03” printed on package)
Consumer Action
Consumers should check their homes for the impacted product.
As with all food recalls, the recalled baby cereal should not be consumed even if it smells or looks safe to eat.
The affected product should be thrown away immediately or returned to place of purchase.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can call the CFIA at 800-442-2342 toll-free in Canada and the US, 613-773-2342, or by email at [email protected].
Health Risks
No illnesses or injuries have been reported in connection with the recalled infant formula but consumers should check with their healthcare providers if they have any concerns about potential Cronobacter exposure and also monitor for any symptoms of infection.
Cronobacter is a gram-negative bacterium that is commonly found in the environment. While it is relatively rare, Cronobacter can cause severe illness, particularly in newborns and infants, people 65 and older, and those with compromised immune systems.
One of the primary concerns with Cronobacter sakazakii is its ability to contaminate powdered infant formula. The bacterium can survive in dry environments and may multiply when reconstituted formula is prepared with contaminated water or under improper storage conditions.
Symptoms of Cronobacter infection in infants may include fever, poor feeding, irritability, lethargy and seizures. In adults, symptoms range from diarrhea to urinary tract infections or exacerbate wounds, scrapes, and cuts.
Symptoms may begin to present in as few as 6 to 8 hours after infection.
Last month, Food Poisoning News reported on a recall of baby formula due to potential Cronobacter contamination. Those products were sold only in Texas.
Commenting on this story, one national Cronobacter lawyer said, “Food that has been contaminated with Cronobacter may look or smell safe but can still cause severe illness. Cronobacter infections are relatively rare but can be especially severe for infants so I recommend following all recall directions explicitly.”
