Apple Pear Banana Puree Recall: What Parents Need to Know
Initiative Foods has issued a voluntary recall of one lot of “Tippy Toes” brand Apple Pear Banana Fruit puree due to elevated levels of patulin, a naturally occurring mycotoxin produced by molds. The recall affects products distributed nationwide, excluding Alaska, and potentially in Guam and Puerto Rico. This action follows sampling by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as part of the Total Diet Study.
Understanding Patulin and Potential Health Risks
Patulin is a substance that can form in fruits like apples when they are affected by mold. Long-term exposure to patulin can lead to adverse health effects, including potential immune suppression, nerve damage, headaches, fever, and nausea. While no illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this recall, Initiative Foods is taking a precautionary measure based on the FDA’s recommendation.
Identifying the Recalled Product
Consumers should check their homes for the following:
- Product Name: Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana
- Packaging Format: 2-pack plastic tubs with a product information sleeve
- UPC(s): 036800, 265783
- Lot Number: 07174
- Best By Date: BB 07/17/2026
- Package Code Identifier: INIA0120
The “Best By” date is located on the bottom of each tub. The package code identifier can be found as shown in the images provided by the FDA.
What to Do If You Have the Recalled Product
If you have the recalled Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana puree with the specified lot number and expiration date, the FDA and Initiative Foods recommend the following:
- Immediately discontinue use of the product.
- Dispose of the product immediately or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- If you have concerns about your health after consuming the product, contact your healthcare provider.
Retailer Guidance
Retailers are urged to check their inventory and remove the affected lot from sale or distribution. They should too properly catalogue the recalled product.
Initiative Foods’ Commitment to Safety
Don Ephgrave, CEO and President of Initiative Foods, stated, “At Initiative Foods, the safety of our consumers and their families is our highest priority. We are cooperating with the FDA to ensure strict review and enhanced safety measures across all our products. We thank our retail partners and customers for their understanding and prompt action on this matter.”
Where to Find More Information
Consumers and retailers with questions or needing further information can contact Initiative Foods directly at 1-855-215-5730, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. To 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is patulin?
A: Patulin is a mycotoxin produced by molds that can grow on fruits, including apples.
Q: Is this recall widespread?
A: The recall affects one specific lot of Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana puree distributed nationwide (excluding Alaska) and potentially in Guam and Puerto Rico.
Q: What should I do if my child consumed the recalled product?
A: Contact your healthcare provider if you have any health concerns.
Q: Where can I find more information about the recall?
A: You can contact Initiative Foods at 1-855-215-5730.
Did you know? The FDA’s Total Diet Study monitors levels of various substances, including mycotoxins, in foods commonly consumed by Americans.
Pro Tip: Always check the “Best By” date and lot number on food products, especially those for infants and young children, to ensure they haven’t been subject to a recall.
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