FDA Recall Alert: Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana Baby Food — Patulin Contamination

IF Copack LLC, doing business as Initiative Foods, has issued a nationwide voluntary recall (ex-Alaska) of one lot of Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana baby food after U.S. FDA testing found patulin, a mold-based mycotoxin, above regulatory limits. Parents and caregivers should locate the lot code listed below and stop feeding the product to infants immediately.

FDA Recall Summary

• Product name: Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana fruit purée (two-pack plastic tubs)
• UPC: 036800265783
• Affected lot: 07174 — “BB 07/17/2026” — package code “INIA0120”
• Distribution: All U.S. states except Alaska; may include Guam & Puerto Rico
• Hazard: Elevated patulin (possible immune suppression, neurotoxicity, headache, fever, nausea)
• What to do: Dispose of the purée or return it for a refund; seek medical advice if symptoms appear
• Consumer line: 1-855-215-5730 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. EST)

Patulin Toxicity: Why It’s a Concern for Babies

Patulin is produced by Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Byssochlamys molds that thrive on damaged or poorly stored fruit, especially apples. Although trace amounts can appear in fruit products, high concentrations may:

• Suppress or dysregulate the developing immune system
• Cause gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
• Trigger headaches or fever
• Potentially lead to neurotoxic effects with chronic exposure

Because infants have lower body weight and still-maturing organs, they are more vulnerable to any mycotoxin.

Immediate Steps for Parents and Caregivers

1. Verify the Best By date on the bottom of every tub; affected units read “BB 07/17/2026” with package code “INIA0120.”
2. Stop feeding the purée. Safely discard it or bring it back to the retailer for a full refund.
3. Watch for symptoms such as persistent nausea, vomiting, headache, or fever. Contact your pediatrician if they occur.
4. Save any unused product or packaging if advised by a health professional for testing.
5. Contact Initiative Foods at 1-855-215-5730 with additional questions.

Retailer Guidance

Retail outlets should:

• Quarantine and remove all recalled lot #07174 from inventory and store shelves.
• Follow established recall protocols for documentation and disposal.
• Post a point-of-sale notification so consumers are immediately aware of the recall.

Images Released by FDA

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana baby food lot is recalled?

Only lot #07174 with Best By 07/17/2026 and package code INIA0120 (UPC 036800265783) is affected.

2. Are any other Tippy Toes baby foods part of this recall?

No. The recall is limited to the Apple Pear Banana flavor; all other Tippy Toes products and lots are not impacted.

3. What health issues can patulin in Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana cause in infants?

High patulin levels may suppress immunity, irritate the digestive tract, and cause headaches, fever, or potential nerve damage after prolonged exposure.

4. How do I claim a refund for my Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana purchase?

Return the affected tubs to the original retailer; most stores offer an immediate refund or product exchange.

5. I already fed my baby Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana. Should we see a doctor?

If your child shows persistent nausea, vomiting, fever, or unusual behavior, consult a pediatrician. If there are no symptoms after limited exposure, serious effects are unlikely.

6. Can I keep the empty Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana container for evidence?

Yes. If advised by your healthcare provider or the manufacturer, retain the empty packaging for possible laboratory analysis or reimbursement verification.