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Organic baby food pouches recall


Everything You Need To Know About The Happy BABY Organic Food Recalls 2021-2023

 

Overview

Nurture, Inc. is a food company that offers a wide range of products for your baby. But it’s among the popular baby food makers called out in recent Congressional Reports for having high toxic metal levels. (1)(2)

The company offers several product lines for baby foods: Happy Family Organics, HappyBABY, and HappyTOTS. Have any of these products been recalled due to heavy metal contamination or other health risks?

In January 2023, the FDA announced new lead limits on baby food and the plan to create a new food safety unit.

Learn more about these below.

 

Subcommittee Congressional Reports: Which Baby Food Brands Are Toxic?

Heavy metals like arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury can harm your baby’s body and brain development, even at low concentrations. (3)(4)

So, the U.S. Congress Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy, headed by Chairman Raja Krishnamoorthi, asked several popular baby food manufacturers for their test results and internal policies for heavy metal testing: (1)

  • Nurture, Inc. (Happy Family Organics, HappyBABY, and HappyTOTS)
  • Beech-Nut Nutrition Company (Beech-Nut)
  • Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (Earth’s Best Organic)
  • Gerber
  • Campbell’s Plum Organics
  • Walmart Inc. (Parent’s Choice)
  • Sprout Foods, Inc. (Sprout Organic Foods)

 

Only four baby food makers provided the Subcommittee with what they were asked for in the first Congressional Report: (1)

  • Gerber
  • Beech-Nut
  • Nurture
  • Hain

 

The second Congressional Report published Plum Organics’ test results and internal policies. (2)

The Subcommittee expressed alarm over the food manufacturers’ very high internal maximum limits for heavy metals. These higher limits meant that the baby foods or ingredients passed the company standards but actually failed to meet government limits. (1)(2)

For example, these are the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) maximum limits for bottled water in ppb (parts per billion): (5)

  • 5 ppb lead
  • 5 ppb cadmium
  • 10 ppb inorganic arsenic

 

Instead of complying, these baby food companies increased their internal standards to exponential levels: (1)

  • Hain (cadmium): 200 ppb
  • Hain (lead): 200 ppb
  • Beech-Nut (cadmium): 3,000 ppb
  • Beech-Nut (lead): 5,000 ppb

 

Also, the FDA’s maximum limit for infant rice cereal is 100 ppb inorganic arsenic. But the following companies set their internal maximum to these: (1)(5)

  • Beech-Nut (arsenic): 3,000 ppb
  • Nurture (arsenic): 115 ppb
  • Hain (arsenic): 200 ppb

 

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) maximum limit for drinking water (but can be applied to food) is 2 ppb mercury. (6)

 

Nurture, Inc. (HappyBABY, HappyTOTS, And Happy Family Organics)

Unlike the other baby food makers who only tested ingredients for heavy metal content, Nurture tested both raw materials and finished products. (1)

But the results showed that many of the company’s products have high levels of toxic heavy metals. (1)

Nurture told the Subcommittee that though the finished products are tested, the results aren’t the basis for product release. (1)

Heavy metal test results from Nurture, Inc.: (1)

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 100 ppb (over 25% of Nurture baby products)
  • Up to 160 ppb (version: Strawberry & Beet Puffs)
  • Up to 160 ppb (version: Banana & Pumpkin Puffs)
  • Up to 180 ppb (version: Apple & Broccoli Puffs)

 

Mercury:

  • Up to 9.8 ppb (version: Banana Sweet Potato)
  • Up to 10 ppb (version: Brown Rice Cereal Canister)

 

Lead:

  • Up to 10 ppb (version: Nurture vegetables and rice products)
  • Up to 560 ppb (version: Multi-Grain Cereal Canister)
  • Up to 641 ppb (version: Blueberry Purple Carrot)

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 5 ppb (close to 65% of Nurture products)
  • Up to 36 ppb (version: Strawberry Raspberry)
  • Up to 49 ppb (version: Multi-Grain Cereal Canister)

 

Second Congressional Report

The House Subcommittee released a follow-up report in September 2021. (2)

The new report showed that the companies continue to produce baby foods with dangerously high levels of inorganic arsenic and other heavy metals, based on independent tests by the state of Alaska. (1)(2)

The Subcommittee also called out these baby food companies for failure to notify the public of their heavy metal content or recall any of their tainted products. (2)

 

Other Companies In The Congressional Report On Toxic Baby Foods

Aside from Nurture, Inc., these baby food makers were also listed on the Congressional reports: (1)(2)

 

Campbell Soup Company (Plum Organics) Results

These test results for Plum Organics Organic Baby Food (flavor: Just Sweet Potato) are from an HBBF (Healthy Babies Bright Futures) report: (7)

 

Mercury:

  • Less than 0.142 ppb

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 3.1 ppb

 

Lead:

  • Up to 5. 6 ppb (exceeds the 5-ppb limit)

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 2.3 ppb

 

In the second Congressional Report, Plum Organics’ test results were finally included. But these showed much higher levels of arsenic and other toxic metals than the HBBF data: (2)

  • Arsenic: Over 200 ppb arsenic (in 100% of Plum’s Super Puff rice-based products)
  • Lead: Over 5 ppb lead (in 54.5% of Plum Organics products)
  • Cadmium: Over 5 ppb cadmium (in 38.3% of Plum Organics products)

 

Gerber Products Company

Gerber only conducts heavy metal tests in raw materials, not finished products. (1)

 

Mercury:

  • No test for mercury.

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 90 ppb (ingredient: rice flour)

 

Lead:

  • Up to 48 ppb (ingredient: sweet potatoes)

 

Cadmium:

  • Over 5 ppb in carrots (in 75% of raw ingredients)
  • Up to 87 ppb (ingredient: carrot batches)
  • No test for cadmium (other raw materials)

 

Hain Celestial Group, Inc.
(Earth’s Best Organic)

Hain told the Subcommittee Report that it doesn’t test for heavy metals in finished products. Instead, “theoretical calculations” are based on the ingredients’ results. (1)

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 309 ppb (for ingredients)
  • Up to 129 ppb (for finished products)

 

Mercury:

  • No test for mercury.

 

Lead:

  • Up to 352 ppb (for raw materials)

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 260 ppb (for ingredients)

 

Walmart Inc. (Parent’s Choice)

Walmart reportedly refused to provide the Subcommittee with results or internal standards. The following results are from HBBF: (1)(7)

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 108 ppb (version: Organic Strawberry Rice Rusks)
  • Up to 56. 1 ppb (version: Little Hearts Strawberry Yogurt Cereal Snack)

 

Mercury:

  • Up to 2.05 ppb (version: Organic Strawberry Rice Rusks)
  • Up to 0.941 ppb (version: Little Hearts Strawberry Yogurt Cereal Snack)

 

Lead:

  • Up to 26.9 ppb (version: Organic Strawberry Rice Rusks)
  • Up to 5.2 ppb (version: Little Hearts Strawberry Yogurt Cereal Snack)

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 26.1 ppb (version: Little Hearts Strawberry Yogurt Cereal Snack)
  • Up to 2.4 ppb (version: Organic Strawberry Rice Rusks)

 

Sprout Foods, Inc. (Sprout Organic Foods)

According to the Subcommittee, the company never responded. These test results for Organic Quinoa Puffs Baby Cereal Snack (Apple Kale) are from the HBBF report: (1)(7)

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 107 ppb

 

Mercury:

  • Up to 1. 31 ppb

 

Lead:

  • Up to 39.3 ppb

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 41.5 ppb

 

Beech-Nut Nutrition Company (Beech-Nut)

Mercury:

  • No test for mercury.

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • More than 300 ppb (in ingredients or additives used in various products)
  • Up to 913.4 ppb (in raw materials)

 

Lead:

  • Up to 886.9 ppb (in raw materials)

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 344.55 ppb (in raw materials)

 

Lawsuit Against HappyTOT For Heavy Metal Content

The Ecological Alliance LLC in Los Angeles filed a class suit against Nurture Inc., the parent company of Happy Family Organics, for making products allegedly having dangerous levels of lead in June 2021: (8)

  • HappyTOT apple and spinach fruit snack bar 
  • HappyTOT cheese and spinach ravioli product 

 

The lawsuit alleges that the apple and spinach fruit snack bar has “higher-than-acceptable” lead content, while the cheese and spinach ravioli contains over 12 times the daily limit of lead exposure for a child. (8)

As the basis for the allegations on the excessive lead levels, the lawsuit cites “independent laboratory tests conducted recently on an array of food products.” (8)

The lawsuit also includes Target and Whole Foods. (8)

“Whole Foods wouldn’t sell an apple grown with pesticides, yet they keep selling baby food containing appalling amounts of lead to unsuspecting parents,” Attorney Vineet Dubey declared in a statement. (8)

 

HBBF Comprehensive Food Safety Test

The two Congressional reports weren’t the only ones that called popular baby food manufacturers for producing products with questionable content.

The HBBF commissioned independent tests of 168 baby foods from 61 different brands in 2019. (7)

The results showed that as much as 95% may have high levels of toxic heavy metals: (7)

  • Arsenic: 73% of the baby foods
  • Lead: 94% of the baby foods
  • Mercury: 32% of the baby foods
  • Cadmium: 75% of the baby foods

 

What’s alarming is that 26% of the baby foods HBBF tested contain all four toxic chemicals in one container. (7)

HBBF expressed alarm over these findings, explaining that exposure to heavy metals can harm your child’s body and brain development. (7)

Pointing out the lack of known safe levels for heavy metal exposure, HBBF urges baby food makers to establish a goal of no measurable amounts of heavy metals for any baby and young children’s food. (7)

 

Is Happy BABY Organic Baby Food Safe?

These HappyBABY Organic products have alarmingly high toxic metal content based on the HBBF study: (7)

 

Organic Rice Cakes Puffed Rice Snack (Apple)

  • Total arsenic: 455 ppb
  • Inorganic arsenic: 47 ppb
  • Lead: 1.7 ppb
  • Cadmium: 5.4 ppb
  • Mercury: 3.18 ppb

 

Superfood Puffs Organic Grain Snack (Sweet Potato & Carrot)

  • Total arsenic: 295 ppb
  • Inorganic arsenic: 91 ppb
  • Lead: 3. 7 ppb
  • Cadmium: 12.2 ppb
  • Mercury: 1.94 ppb

 

Superfood Puffs – Apple & Broccoli Organic Grain Snack (Crawling Baby)

  • Total arsenic: 266 ppb
  • Inorganic arsenic: 83 ppb
  • Lead: 8.2 ppb
  • Cadmium: 11 ppb
  • Mercury: 2.16 ppb

 

Organic Teethers Blueberry & Purple Carrot (Sitting Baby)

  • Total arsenic: 67 ppb
  • Inorganic arsenic: (not measurable)
  • Lead: 6 ppb
  • Cadmium: 8.2 ppb
  • Mercury: 2.26 ppb

 

Oats & Quinoa Baby Cereal Organic Whole Grains with Iron (Sitting Baby)

  • Total arsenic: 10. 2 ppb
  • Inorganic arsenic: (not measurable)
  • Lead: 0.9 ppb
  • Cadmium: 12.4 ppb
  • Mercury: 0.14 ppb

 

Oatmeal Baby Cereal, Clearly Crafted – Organic Whole Grains (Sitting Baby)

  • Total arsenic: 6.3 ppb
  • Inorganic arsenic: (not measurable)
  • Lead: <0.5 ppb
  • Cadmium: 10 ppb
  • Mercury: 0.14 ppb

 

Sweet Potatoes (Stage 1)

  • Total arsenic: 27.5 ppb
  • Inorganic arsenic: 29 ppb
  • Lead: 2 ppb
  • Cadmium: 1.6 ppb
  • Mercury: <0.141 ppb

 

Apples, Sweet Potatoes & Granola Clearly Crafted Organic Baby Food (Stage 2)

  • Total arsenic: 3. 6 ppb
  • Inorganic arsenic: (not measurable)
  • Lead: 5.2 ppb
  • Cadmium: 1.5 ppb
  • Mercury: <0.142 ppb

 

Does Happy Baby Organic Formula Have Heavy Metals?

The following HappyBABY Organic Food products also have measurable toxic heavy metal content but are within government regulations: (7)

  • Organic Infant Formula with Iron (0-12 months)
  • Organics Sweet Potatoes (Stage 1)
  • Organic Pears (Stage 1)
  • Clearly Crafted Prunes Organic Baby Food (Stage 1)
  • Simple Combos Apples, Spinach & Kale (Stage 2)

 

Consumer Reports Food Safety Test

Consumer Reports tested 50 baby foods for heavy metals in 2018: (9)

  • Nearly 68% of baby foods may have high levels of at least one toxic metal.
  • At least 15 baby foods can have potential health risks if eaten daily
  • Products with sweet potatoes or rice may contain higher toxic metal levels
  • Organic foods may have the same amount of heavy metals as conventional baby foods

 

Baby Foods With Limited Daily Intake

Based on their tests, these products are categorized as “more concern.” Parents are advised to follow these daily serving limits: (9)

 

Happy Baby Organics 

  • Organic Probiotic Baby Cereal (<3 servings)
  • Organics Superfood Puffs, Apple & Broccoli (<1 serving)
  • Organics Superfood Puffs, Purple Carrot & Blueberry (<1 serving)

 

Earth’s Best Organic

  • Chicken & Brown Rice (<1 serving)
  • Sunny Days Snack Bars, Strawberry (<1 serving)
  • Whole Grain Oatmeal Cereal (<2. 5 servings)
  • Sweet Potatoes, 1st Stage (<0.5 serving)
  • Whole Grain Rice Cereal (<1 serving)

 

Baby Mum-Mum 

  • Banana Rice Rusks (<3 servings)
  • Vegetable Rice Rusks (3 servings)

 

Beech-Nut 

  • Classics Sweet Potatoes (<0.5 serving)
  • Complete Rice Single Grain Baby Cereal (<3 servings)
  • Complete Oatmeal Whole Grain Baby Cereal (<2.5 servings)
  • Organic Oatmeal Whole Grain Baby Cereal (<2.5 servings)

 

Plum Organics 

  • Little Yums Organic Teething Wafers, Pumpkin & Banana (<5.5 servings)
  • Just Sweet Potato Organic Baby Food (<1 serving)
  • Mighty Sticks Whole Grain Snacks, Berry Beet (<1.5 servings)

 

Gerber 

  • Turkey & Rice (<1 serving)
  • Lil’ Meals flavor White Turkey Stew With Rice and Vegetables (<0. 5 serving)
  • Carrot, Pear & Blackberry (<1 serving)
  • Carrots Peas & Corn With Lil’ Bits (<1 serving)
  • Oatmeal Single Grain Cereal (<2.5 servings)
  • Organic Oatmeal Cereal (<2.5 servings)
  • Graduates Arrowroot Cookies (<6 servings)
  • Graduates Cinnamon Graham Animal Crackers (<4.5 servings)
  • Graduates Banana Cookies (<4 servings)
  • Graduates Waffle Wheels Puffed Grain Snack, Banana Cream (<3 servings)
  • Graduates Lil’ Biscuits Vanilla Wheat (<2.5 servings)
  • Graduates Cereal Bars, Strawberry Banana (<1.5 servings)

 

Parent’s Choice (Walmart)

  • Little Puffs Cereal Snack, Strawberry Apple (<1.5 servings)

 

Sprout Organic 

  • Quinoa Puffs Baby Cereal Snack, Apple Kale (<1. 5 servings)
  • Garden Vegetables Brown Rice With Turkey (<1 serving)

 

Baby Foods With No Daily Limits

Because they have low levels of heavy metals, based on the same report, these products are categorized as “less concern” (no daily limits): (2)(9)

 

Happy Baby Organics 

  • Purple Carrots, Bananas, Avocados & Quinoa

 

Ella’s Kitchen 

  • Apples + Strawberries Nibbly Fingers

 

Gerber 

  • Graduates Puffs Cereal Snack, Strawberry Apple
  • Lil’ Beanies Baked Snack Made With Beans, White Cheddar & Broccoli
  • Lil’ Crunchies Baked Corn Snack Mild Cheddar
  • Lil’ Crunchies Baked Corn Snack Vanilla Maple
  • Organic Puffs, Puffed Grain Snack, Apple
  • Lil’ Entrées Chicken & Brown Rice With Peas & Corn
  • Grabbers Strong Veggies, Broccoli, Carrot, Banana, Pineapple
  • Organic Peas, Carrots & Beets
  • Breakfast Buddies Hot Cereal With Real Fruit, Apple Cinnamon

 

Beech-Nut 

  • Classics Apple, Pear & Banana
  • Naturals Carrot, Broccoli, Apple & Strawberry
  • Organic Just Apple & Green Beans
  • Organic Peas, Green Beans, and Avocado
  • Quinoa Crispies, Vanilla

 

Which Baby Foods Are The Safest?

These may be some of the best organic baby foods that may be a healthier alternative to these commercial products:

  • Serenity Kids
  • Yumi (subscription-based)
  • Little Spoon (subscription-based)
  • Once Upon A Farm

 

Preparing Healthier Alternatives At Home

Considering that many baby foods readily available on supermarket shelves may have high levels of toxic metal content, some parents opt to make their children’s food at home.

If you plan on making your baby’s food at home, you may try the following ingredients: (2) 

  • Quality meats, poultry, or fish 
  • Healthy fats (coconut oil, olive oil, or ghee)
  • Whole or purée vegetables and fruits (avocados, apples, bananas, peaches, grapes, and strawberries), but avoid processed fruit juices
  • Applesauce (unsweetened)
  • Organic eggs 
  • Bone broth
  • Raw yogurt
  • Coconut yogurt 
  • Quinoa 
  • Oats 

 

Was Happy BABY Recalled?

Nurture Inc. and the rest of the brands in the Congressional Report reportedly have many products tainted with heavy metals. But not one issued a relevant recall or baby food safety warning. (1)(2)

These are the only baby food product recalls that Nurture Inc. has issued:

 

HappyBABY & HappyTOT Baby Food Pouch Recall (2010)

In 2010, Nurture Inc. voluntarily recalled several HappyBABY products over possible bacterial contamination. Eating any of the contaminated products may cause serious health issues, including severe vomiting and nausea. (10)

The recall was done in response to the FDA’s public warning to the company over numerous consumer reports that the baby food pouches were swollen or leaking. (10)

Nurture Inc. warned the public against consuming these possibly contaminated products. According to the recall advisory, the compromised packaging may cause serious illness to little ones who ingested the content. (10)

These HappyBABY Stages 1 and 2 food pouches with expiration dates from November 2010 to January 2011 were recalled: (10)

  • Mango (net wt. 3.5 oz.) – UPC 8 52697 00134 7
  • Spinach Mango Pear (net wt. 3.5 oz.) – UPC 8 52697 00139 2
  • Apricot Sweet Potato (net wt. 3.5 oz.) – UPC 8 52697

 

The following HappyTOTStage 4 baby food pouches, with expiration dates from November 2010 to January 2011, were also included in the recall: (10)

  • Green bean, pear & peas (net wt. 4.22 oz.) – UPC 8 52697 00127 9
  • Sweet potato, carrot, apple & cinnamon (net wt. 4.22 oz.) – UPC 8 52697 00128 6
  • Spinach, mango & pear (net wt. 4.22 oz.) – UPC 8 52697 00129 3
  • Butternut squash & apple (net wt. 4.22 oz.) – UPC 8 52697 00130 9
  • Banana, peach, coconut & prunes (net wt. 4.22 oz.) – UPC 8 52697 00131 6
  • Banana, peach & mango (net wt. 4.22 oz.) – UPC 8 52697 00132 3

 

No other HappyTOT and HappyBABY food products were affected by this recall. (10)

The company recommends that you immediately consult your child’s pediatrician or seek medical attention if your child has eaten any contaminated food and fallen ill. (10)

To avoid spreading the contamination, Nurture Inc. also advises affected customers to discard the products in a way that will keep anyone, people or animals, from retrieving them. (10)

Everyone who has touched the possibly contaminated baby food pouches should wash their hands thoroughly. Store personnel were also reminded to exercise caution in handling the recalled items and cleaning the affected areas in their shop. (10)

 

HappyTOT Super Foods Oat Bars Recall (2020)

Nurture Inc. issued a voluntary recall on November 3, 2020, on several products, following consumer complaints of some oat bars containing mold. (11)

According to the recall advisory, these bars have a higher water content, making them more susceptible to mold growth. (11)

HappyTOT Super Foods Gluten-Free Oat Bars (flavor: Organic Blueberries and Oatmeal; with UPC 8 19573 01507 2) in the recall: (11)

  • BB 07 APR 2021 20098
  • BB 08 APR 2021 20099
  • BB 09 APR 2021 20100
  • BB 18 MAY 2021 20139
  • BB 19 MAY 2021 20140
  • BB 16 JUN 2021 20168
  • BB 28 AUG 2021 20241

 

HappyTOT Super Foods Gluten-Free Oat Bars (flavor: Organic Bananas, Strawberries, and Sunflower Butter; UPC 8 19573 01508 9) included in the recall: (11)

  • BB 13 APR 2021 20104
  • BB 08 MAY 2021 20129
  • BB 20 MAY 2021 20141
  • BB 21 MAY 2021 20142
  • BB 08 JUN 2021 20160
  • BB 09 JUN 2021 20161
  • BB 15 JUN 2021 20167

 

The recall also included HappyKID Fruit & Oat Bar (flavor: Blueberry + Raspberry) with these product codes: (11)

  • BB 14 APR 2021 20105
  • BB 05 MAY 2021 20126
  • BB 11 MAY 2021 20132
  • BB 01 JUN 2021 20153
  • BB 08 JUN 2021 20190
  • BB 13 JUL 2021 20195
  • BB 04 AUG 2021 20217

 

The company has assured affected customers that the products don’t have a high risk of causing illness but recalled the items to prevent untoward incidents. (11)

This official statement was posted on the company’s website: (12)

“We decided to voluntarily recall these products due to the remote possibility that consumption could cause adverse health consequences. 

We want to assure families, first and foremost, that according to our internal food safety investigation and FDA’s review, there is a low risk of any health-related concerns following consumption. 

Nevertheless, it does not reflect the high standards we hold for our products and is not an experience we want our families to have.”

The company has also assured parents that they have implemented tighter controls on monitoring the water activity of every batch of bars they bake so this may not happen again. (12)

On its website, the company claimed that it had commissioned third-party tests for all future bar productions. (12)

 

Baby Food Recall (News & Updates)

FDA Plans To Create New Food Safety Unit

Update: February 3, 2023

 

The new Human Foods Program planned by the FDA will be tasked to focus on the importance of nutrition and the US food supply’s safety. FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf explains that the new deputy commissioner for human foods will have clear decision-making authority. (13)

The new unit will also be in charge of improving nutrition to address chronic diseases linked with poor nutrition believed to be causing the declining life expectancy in the US. (13)

 

FDA Announces New Lead Limits For Baby Foods

The federal agency also proposes these lead level limits for baby food (made for children under two years old): (14)(15)

  • Lower than 10 ppb (parts per billion) for yogurts, meat, custards and puddings, fruits, most vegetables, and mixed meals (e.g., grain and meat-based mixtures)
  • Maximum of 20 ppb for dry infant cereals and root vegetables (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and beets) 

 

The FDA estimates that these new limits can reduce young children’s dietary exposure to lead by around 24-27%. (14)(15)

Still, Consumer Reports and Healthy Babies Bright Futures are pushing for the FDA to lower these limits further because of lead’s serious impact on children’s health (e. g., neurological and developmental impairment). (14)(15)

These baby food safety advocates also urge the FDA to include the other heavy metals detected in previous baby food reports, including mercury and cadmium. (14)(15)

 

References

(1) https://oversight.house.gov/sites/democrats.oversight.house.gov/files/2021-02-04%20ECP%20Baby%20Food%20Staff%20Report.pdf

(2) https://oversight.house.gov/sites/democrats.oversight.house.gov/files/ECP%20Second%20Baby%20Food%20Report%209.29.21%20FINAL.pdf

(3) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23570911/

(4) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4418502/

(5) https://www.fda.gov/food/metals-and-your-food/arsenic-food-and-dietary-supplements

(6) https://www.epa.gov/mercury/what-epa-doing-reduce-mercury-pollution-and-exposures-mercury

(7) http://www.healthybabyfood.org/sites/healthybabyfoods.org/files/2019-10/BabyFoodReport_FULLREPORT_ENGLISH_R5b.pdf

(8) https://www.fox5ny.com/news/high-lead-levels-found-in-2-happy-tot–baby-food-products-lawsuit-alleges

(9) https://www. consumerreports.org/food-safety/heavy-metals-in-baby-food/

(10) https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2010/01/fda-acts-quickly-with-baby-food-warning/

(11) https://www.happyfamilyorganics.com/bars-quality-and-safety/

(12) https://www.happyfamilyorganics.com/bars-quality-and-safety/

(13) https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2023-01-31/after-baby-formula-scandal-fda-announces-new-unit-focused-on-food-safety

(14) https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/24/health/fda-lead-baby-food.html

(15) https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/baby-food/fda-proposes-new-limits-for-lead-in-baby-foods-a2167994237/

 

 

Gerber Baby Food Recalls 2021-2023: What Happened?

 

Overview

Did you know that exposure to toxic heavy metals can significantly affect your baby’s brain development? It could lead to a decrease in IQ and possible antisocial behavior in young children. (1)(2)

What’s alarming is that as much as 95% of baby food products from some of the most popular brands in the U. S. contain significant levels of mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium. (3)

In tests commissioned by HBBF (Healthy Babies Bright Futures), toxic heavy metals were found in 95% of the 168 commercial baby foods tested. Many were at dangerous levels, higher than the limits set by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration). (3)

Last February 2021, the Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy of the U.S. Congress released a detailed Congressional Report on toxic products prepared by seven popular baby food companies. (4)

What were the Subcommittee’s findings, and how did the companies respond? Which products contained high levels of toxic heavy metals? 

Gerber Products Company was among the baby food manufacturers listed in the report. Over the years, Gerber had issued some baby food recalls. But did the new report lead to a recall of the affected Gerber baby foods? 

In January 2023, in response to public clamor, the FDA announced that they’re proposing limits on lead in baby food. They’re also creating a new food safety unit.

Continue reading to learn more.

 

Subcommittee Congressional Report On Toxic Baby Foods

What Baby Food Has Toxic Metals?

The Subcommittee asked the following baby food manufacturers to submit test results of the products that reportedly have high levels of toxic heavy metals: (4)

  • Nurture, Inc. (HappyBABY and Happy Family Organics)
  • Beech-Nut Nutrition Company (Beech-Nut)
  • Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (Earth’s Best Organic)
  • Gerber Products Company
  • Campbell Soup Company (Plum Organics)
  • Walmart Inc. (Parent’s Choice)
  • Sprout Foods, Inc. (Sprout Organic Foods)

 

Of these seven companies, only Gerber, Nurture, Hain, and Beech-Nut submitted their test results and internal standards or testing policies to the Subcommittee. (4)

Walmart, Sprout, and Campbell refused to cooperate, according to the Congressional Report. (4)

However, despite complying with the request, the four companies alarmed the Subcommittee over test results that showed heavy metal levels were several times the FDA’s maximum allowable levels. (4)

 

FDA maximum limits in ppb or parts per billion for infant rice cereal: (5)

  • 100 ppb inorganic arsenic

 

FDA maximum limits in ppb for bottled water:

  • 5 ppb cadmium
  • 5 ppb lead
  • 10 ppb inorganic arsenic

 

EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) maximum limit in ppb for drinking water (also applies to food):

  • 2 ppb mercury

 

The Subcommittee was alarmed that the companies didn’t correct the heavy metal levels in their raw materials and finished products. Instead, these baby food companies created internal standards with increased limits. (4)

According to their new reports, these companies’ finished products passed because they have higher limits for their internal standards. Yet, the actual results are still several times higher than the FDA standards.

 

Why Is Gerber Not Good For Babies?

The state of Alaska independently tested Gerber baby food products and found dangerously high levels of inorganic arsenic in their infant rice cereals.

The second Congressional report on baby food revealed that despite Alaska’s test results Gerber failed to notify the public and also failed to pull those products from the market.

As head of the congressional subcommittee, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi states: 

“My Subcommittee’s investigation has pulled back the curtain on the baby food industry, and each revelation has been more damning than the last. 

I’ve released a new report on toxic metals in baby food, including popular brands such as Gerber’s Infant Rice Cereal products containing dangerous levels of inorganic arsenic.   

We trust these companies with our babies, and they have failed us.”

The following are the affected baby food products, based on test results submitted by the companies or third-party organizations: (4)

 

Gerber Products Company

The company declared to the Subcommittee that it doesn’t test the finished products for heavy metal content. Only the raw materials are tested. (4)

 

Mercury:

  • The company doesn’t test for mercury.

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 90 ppb in ingredients from rice flour (67 batches)

 

Lead:

  • Up to 48 ppb in ingredients from sweet potatoes

 

Cadmium:

  • Over 5 ppb in 75% of ingredients from carrots
  • Up to 87 ppb in some tested carrot batches
  • The company doesn’t test the other raw materials or ingredients for this heavy metal.

 

Nurture, Inc. (HappyBABY And Happy Family Organics)

Of all the baby food manufacturers in the Congressional Report, only Nurture regularly tests ingredients and finished products for heavy metals.

Despite the high levels of heavy metals in their finished products, Nurture admitted that the test results aren’t used as a basis for product release. (4)

In response to the investigation, the company wrote to Subcommittee Chairman Raja Krishnamoorthi that heavy metal testing is only done for its internal monitoring program under the company policy. It sold all the tested items, whether they passed or failed. (4)

 

Mercury:

  • Up to 9.8 ppb in the finished product (Banana Sweet Potato)
  • Up to 10 ppb in the finished product (Brown Rice Cereal Canister)

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 100 ppb for over 25% of Nurture finished products
  • Up to 160 in Strawberry & Beet Puffs
  • Up to 160 in Banana & Pumpkin Puffs
  • Up to 180 ppb in Apple & Broccoli Puffs

 

Lead:

  • Up to 10 ppb for close to 20% of Nurture vegetables and rice products
  • Up to 560 ppb in Multi-Grain Cereal Canister
  • Up to 641 ppb in  Blueberry Purple Carrot

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 5 ppb in 65% of Nurture baby products
  • Up to 36 ppb in Strawberry Raspberry
  • Up to 49 ppb for Multi-Grain Cereal Canister

 

Beech-Nut Nutrition Company (Beech-Nut)

According to the Congressional Report, Beech-Nut declared that all its raw materials passed internal standards. But the company had set very high internal maximum levels, so the ingredients actually failed government regulations. (4)

 

Mercury:

  • The company doesn’t test for mercury.

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • More than 300 ppb in additives used in various products
  • Up to 913.4 ppb in raw materials

 

Lead:

  • Up to 886.9 ppb in raw materials

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 344.55 ppb in raw materials

 

Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (Earth’s Best Organic)

According to the Subcommittee report, Hain admitted that it’s only using “theoretical calculations,” not actual test results. (4)

 

Mercury:

  • The company doesn’t test for mercury

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 129 ppb in finished products
  • Up to 309 ppb in ingredients

 

Lead:

  • Up to 352 ppb in a vitamin premix (raw materials)

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 260 ppb in ingredients

 

Campbell Soup Company (Plum Organics)

According to the Subcommittee, the company provided them with a report declaring that each of the finished products “meets criteria. ” 

But the company reportedly refused to provide their actual test results or internal standards and criteria.

The following results are based on data from the Healthy Babies Bright Futures report, instead: (3)

 

Mercury:

  • Less than 0.142 ppb in Just Sweet Potato Organic Baby Food 

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 3.1 ppb in Just Sweet Potato Organic Baby Food 

 

Lead:

  • Up to 5.6 ppb in Just Sweet Potato Organic Baby Food 

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 2.3 ppb in Just Sweet Potato Organic Baby Food 

 

Walmart Inc. (Parent’s Choice)

Walmart didn’t submit any test results to the Subcommittee. The following results are also from the Healthy Babies Bright Futures report, too: (3)

 

Mercury:

  • Up to 0.941 ppb in Little Hearts Strawberry Yogurt Cereal Snack 
  • Up to 2. 05 ppb in Organic Strawberry Rice Rusks

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 56.1 ppb in Little Hearts Strawberry Yogurt Cereal Snack 
  • Up to 108 ppb in Organic Strawberry Rice Rusks

 

Lead:

  • Up to 5.2 ppb in Little Hearts Strawberry Yogurt Cereal Snack 
  • Up to 26.9 ppb in Organic Strawberry Rice Rusks

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 26.1 ppb in Little Hearts Strawberry Yogurt Cereal Snack 
  • Up to 2.4 ppb in Organic Strawberry Rice Rusks

 

Sprout Foods, Inc. (Sprout Organic Foods)

According to the Congressional Report, the company never responded to the Subcommittee. The following results also come from the Healthy Babies Bright Futures report: (3)

 

Mercury:

  • Up to 1.31 ppb in Organic Quinoa Puffs Baby Cereal Snack – Apple Kale.

 

Inorganic Arsenic:

  • Up to 107 ppb in Organic Quinoa Puffs Baby Cereal Snack – Apple Kale.

 

Lead:

  • Up to 39.3 ppb in Organic Quinoa Puffs Baby Cereal Snack – Apple Kale.

 

Cadmium:

  • Up to 41.5 ppb in Organic Quinoa Puffs Baby Cereal Snack – Apple Kale.

 

What Are The Safest Baby Food Brands?

The following are some healthy alternatives to the unsafe products in the report:

  • Serenity Kids
  • Yumi (subscription-based)
  • Little Spoon (subscription-based)
  • Once Upon A Farm

 

Instead of worrying about food recalls, preparing fresh and organic baby foods at home might be a good idea. 

You can buy a baby food maker set such as the Baby Brezza Small Baby Food Maker Set – Cooker and Blender in One or use the appliances you already have in your kitchen in preparing your baby’s food.

Note that rice and rice flour can have high levels of cadmium, lead, and arsenic. It’s best to avoid preparing these foods for your baby.

Healthier alternatives include:

  • Bananas
  • Apples
  • Grapes
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Yogurt
  • Peaches
  • Barley with diced vegetables
  • Quinoa
  • Whole or puréed fruits 

 

Sweet potatoes and carrots can also have high levels of lead and cadmium. But they are important sources of vitamin A and other nutrients. 

You’ll still need to include these foods in your child’s diet, but make sure they aren’t taken in excess. (3)

 

Baby Food Safety Act Of 2021

There are so many possible contaminants and harmful ingredients in our food supply. Some of these are from pesticides.

Because heavy metals and other contaminants could greatly affect babies’ body and brain development, Consumer Reports and the US PIRG (Public Interest Research Group) call for the passing of the Baby Food Safety Act of 2021. (6)

If this passes into law, baby food manufacturers will be required to test and disclose their test results to regulators and parents.

The law will also direct the FDA to adopt and implement stricter limits for baby foods.

Consumer Reports and the AAP (American Academy for Pediatrics) call for further changes: (4)

  • Lowering inorganic arsenic maximum levels to 3 ppb in all baby foods; the current FDA and EPA limit is 10 ppb.
  • Lowering maximum cadmium limits to 1 ppb in fruit juices; the current FDA limit is 5 ppb.
  • Lowering maximum lead limits to 1 ppb in all baby foods; the current FDA limit is 5 ppb.

 

Healthy Babies Bright Futures also calls for baby food companies to set a goal of zero inorganic arsenic and lead levels in all baby food products.

 

Was Gerber Recalled In 2021?

Despite being included in the Congressional Report, no Gerber baby food recall was issued afterward.  

The rest of the baby food manufacturers mentioned in the report didn’t issue a recall as well.

To date, only the following Gerber products have been recalled:

 

Gerber Cheese Ravioli Pasta Pick-Ups (2017)

Back in 2017, Gerber Cheese Ravioli Pasta Pick-Ups were recalled, but not because of heavy metals.

  • Date Recalled: March 08, 2017
  • Reasons For Recall: Undeclared egg components (allergens) on the product label. (7)
  • Affected Products: UPC (Universal Product Code) 159070
  • Return or Refund Processing: Call 1-800-510-7494

 

Gerber Organic 2ND FOODS Pouches (2016)

  • Date Recalled: March 24, 2016
  • Reasons For Recall: Packaging defects that may result in product spoilage during handling and transport. (8)
  • Return or Refund Processing: Call 1-800-706-0556

 

Affected Products: (8)

  • Carrots, Apples & Mangoes; with best before dates: July 13, 2016 (batch 51955335XX), and July 14, 2016 (batch 51965335XX)
  • Pears, Carrots & Peas; with best before dates: July 12, 2016 (batch 51945335XX), and July 13, 2016 (batch 51955335XX)

 

Baby Food Recall (News & Updates)

FDA Plans To Create New Food Safety Unit

Update: February 2, 2023

 

The FDA proposes the creation of the Human Foods Program, a new food safety unit that will focus on the importance of nutrition. According to FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf, the new deputy commissioner for human foods will have clear decision-making authority, ensuring the US food supply’s safety. (9)

The new unit will also be tasked to improve US nutrition to address the declining life expectancy, possibly due to chronic diseases linked with poor nutrition. (9)

 

FDA Proposes New Lead Limits On Baby Foods

In response to public outcry, the FDA proposes new lead level limits for baby food, applicable for children under two years old: (10)(11)

  • Lower than 10 ppb (parts per billion) in fruits, meat, yogurts, most vegetables, custards and puddings, and mixed meals (includes grain and meat-based mixtures)
  • Maximum of 20 ppb in dry infant cereals and also in root crops (such as sweet potatoes, beets, and carrots) because they grow underground and potentially absorb more lead from the soil

 

Although the FDA estimates that these can reduce young children’s lead exposure by 24-27%, baby food safety advocates like Healthy Babies Bright Futures and Consumer Reports hoped for stricter measures. (10)(11)

They’re pointing out lead’s serious impact on children’s health, including reduced IQ, neurological and developmental impairment, behavior problems, and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

They also want the FDA to address the other heavy metals detected in baby food, such as cadmium and mercury, which aren’t included in the agency’s new proposal. (10)(11)

 

References

(1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23570911/

(2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4418502/

(3) http://www.healthybabyfood.org/sites/healthybabyfoods.org/files/2019-10/BabyFoodReport_FULLREPORT_ENGLISH_R5b.pdf

(4) https://oversight.house.gov/sites/democrats.oversight.house.gov/files/2021-02-04%20ECP%20Baby%20Food%20Staff%20Report.pdf

(5) https://www.fda.gov/food/metals-and-your-food/arsenic-food-and-dietary-supplements

(6) https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/shopping/2021/06/09/beech-nut–baby-food-recall-2021-rice-cereal-arsenic/7621243002/

(7) https://www. fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gerber-issues-allergy-alert-clarify-egg-labeling-cheese-ravioli-pasta-pick-upsr

(8) http://news.gerber.com/news/gerber-is-voluntarily-recalling-two-batches-of-gerberR-organic-2nd-foodsR-pouches

(9) https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2023-01-31/after-baby-formula-scandal-fda-announces-new-unit-focused-on-food-safety

(10) https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/24/health/fda-lead-baby-food.html

(11) https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/baby-food/fda-proposes-new-limits-for-lead-in-baby-foods-a2167994237/

 

 

 

Parent reviews

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I was surprised by the delicate, pleasant taste!

First we tried three-grain porridge, and later a millet mixture of cereals. Before giving it to my child, I tried it myself and was surprised at the gentle, pleasant taste, as well as the aftertaste, these cereals were easier and faster to dilute. Now every morning starts with Fleur Alpine cereals, and we also continue to buy them. At the time of the meal, the daughter always has a good appetite and a satisfied face. My daughter became more mobile and began to crawl. And good healthy sleep!

Dina_471910 Aktobe

I tried and ate the whole plate!

According to the simple instructions, we dilute the Alpine Evening porridge and let it stand until cooked. Mom tastes first, it's my duty to try new foods. :) Uhh.;) Delicious is the first thought. To be more precise, the taste of light nut cookies, the aroma is subtle, unobtrusive, the cookies smell gently. The porridge is airy, without lumps. Everything is fine, Vanechka, with pleasure, tried and ate the whole plate. Moreover, he is usually so careful, first he tries on the tongue, and only then he either eats or categorically closes his mouth and refuses to eat. Here the tests were successful and the plate was soon emptied. :) There was a smile on my face - I liked it. For 5 days, Vanyusha ate Alpine Evening porridge for dinner, we noticed that he began to sleep better, stronger and stopped biting after dinner, the porridge is very satisfying. :)

Perviy ***Sneg *** Moscow

I haven’t seen analogues on store shelves

We tried millet porridge with a mixture of cereals and buckwheat porridge with goat's milk. In the process of cooking, both porridges showed themselves in the best possible way - there was not even a hint of lumps, they were quickly and evenly mixed. The taste of both millet and buckwheat turned out to be pleasant, despite the absence of sugar in the composition, so they were gobbled up by the child almost as quickly as they were cooked by the mother. The absence of sugar in dry mixes, as well as a vitamin complex, is a huge plus for us, since our daughter is allergic and we are very selective in food. Buckwheat porridge with goat's milk is very tasty, perfectly digested. The taste is delicate and the aroma is very pleasant! My daughter who is allergic to cow's milk protein did not cause any reaction, so now she is our favorite! Millet porridge is generally something unique - I have not seen analogues on store shelves! Gluten-free, multi-component composition enriching the child's diet - an amazing product. To taste - just a class, they surprised even my mother, and the baby was delighted, she ate for both cheeks.

Burunduk24

Crispy with a savory taste of olive oil

To begin with, I studied the composition of the dryers. And he completely suited me: wheat flour, water, sea salt and extra virgin olive oil. Shelf life of dryers from the date of manufacture is 9 months. Cute packaging design, easy to open. Drying is made and directly delivered from Italy, which is very captivating. The taste of dryers is pleasant, moderately salty, completely different from the dryers we are used to. They are not overdried, easily cracked and melt in your mouth. They are crispy with a savory taste of olive oil. Me and my son love the dryers! And in the evening our dad tasted them and was also pleasantly surprised by the taste of unusual Italian dryers for the whole family. Such dryers are ideal for a snack on a walk and on the road, and just as a nice addition to any meal! Fleur Alpine ORGANIC Italian dried olive oil Taralli from Fleur Alpine ORGANIC is a solid "5" for the whole family!

Schastye Moscow

Impression of drying

Composition quite pleasant without unnecessary additives and palm oil Wheat flour, water, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt Flour and butter are declared of organic origin. They are incredibly tasty, not sweet, it is clearly felt that there is olive oil, which is stated in the composition. But the taste is very different from the usual taste of dryers and bagels. Taralli are small, but it is convenient for a child to eat them. Not crumbly, and not too dry, just right. Very good for an afternoon snack and just a snack on a walk. The only thing is that the package is not very convenient, and in order to take this snack somewhere with you, you need to pour it into another container. In my opinion, a worthy delicacy for children. The color scheme is close to natural colors, once again convincing the buyer about naturalness and benefits. The color is light sand. Not fried. From above, as if sprinkled with fine flour of their dryers themselves. The texture is not hard. They quickly melt in the mouth, leaving a slightly salty and bready aftertaste. The whole family appreciated them, will undoubtedly be included in the list of our purchases.

Irina_521281

Sushki conquered the family!

We have tried Italian dried olive oil. They conquered the whole family! Immediately it is worth noting the funny shape in the form of snails: Nikita, before eating the dry, managed to play with it. But when I figured out how delicious it was, it was no longer up to games! :) Again, the composition contains a natural minimum: flour, water, oil, sea salt. Not every company will be able to make delicious food out of these fairly simple products. And Fleur Alpine did it! After eating the dryers, a pleasant aftertaste of olives remains.

Sergey_521164, Minsk

Convenient travel packaging!

We immediately went to test the oil by adding it to the porridge (it should be noted that no oil had been given before). The son reacted positively, did not spit out anything, ate with the same appetite. Of course, it is difficult to assess how high quality and useful this oil is, but personally the taste reminded me of natural, according to my memory, this is how it should be (tried in Greece). And the packaging in the form of a sachet is very convenient when the oil is used only for a child or when traveling. In the future, we will definitely buy a larger package =)

Nadezhda_18731

Soup and salad - everything was eaten!

I am always wary of anything new in our son's diet. Before giving the product to the child, she poured it into a glass to see if there were any impurities - she was pleasantly surprised: the consistency is liquid, without impurities, without an unpleasant smell and taste (I tried it myself "on the tongue"). I read on the company's website how long they have been working, what they are made of, what tests the products pass - everything is worthy and pleases. Since my son is over a year old, I gave half a bag for the first time (I added it to vegetable puree soup). There were no allergic reactions. We also decided to add to the salad for our older daughters (4 and 6 years old, girls rarely eat salad if the oil is odorous) - everything was eaten. Now we know how tasty and healthy it is to use olive oil in food. Thank you.

Virey Lipetsk

Perfect taste and light aroma

100% organic extra virgin olive oil produced in Italy. Perfect taste and light aroma, which a good oil should have (I can only compare with oils that I bought abroad). Add 1-2 ml to porridge and meat and vegetable puree. Together with food, it does not taste good, my daughter eats well. Allergies did not cause, the stool is unchanged. I liked the packaging in the form of a sachet (I know that it is also in a bottle) at our age it is more practical, the open oil does not last long, therefore it does not oxidize. Thank you very much esky!

Nika_123 Ufa

Natural spring water

It is very convenient: for home use - a large container, for a trip somewhere we take a medium bottle with us. For children's hands, a baby bottle is convenient, made in three colors - blue, orange and pink. The kids love it. What is important - she has a comfortable "sports" neck. Speaking about the water itself, I would like to note that the very quality of the water is the highest. The composition is the most optimal for everyday use, breeding baby food, preparing diluted milk and mixtures. It does not need to be boiled, the water is ready to drink, safe, hermetically sealed. The Austrian manufacturer acts as a guarantor. The water is positioned as a premium class, spring, mountain source. Fully complies with the technical regulations of the customs union. I looked through the certificates of conformity for this product and for the first time I was completely satisfied with what I read. I give this product the highest possible rating for quality.

Otrada86 Kazan

123 Further

90,000 SIME OF HIPP HIPP from flakes, from 10 months, 200 gr

Silent organic cereal with fruits for children from 10 months, 200 gr

Your baby needs a lot of energy to start the day well. HiPP Baby Organic Dry Fruit Cereal is specially formulated with this need in mind, making it the perfect easy to digest breakfast.

Start the morning with HiPP, because the first meal of the day is important for a complete child's diet. Also suitable as a snack during the day.

Porridge features:

  • Especially tender flake pieces are easy to chew and are ideal for developing self-chewing skills.
  • Contains 82% organic whole grains that are highly digestible.
  • With vitamin B1 - important for the nervous system.
  • No added sugar.
  • No fragrances.

Suggested Use:

  • Start serving cooked cereal with about 1 dessert spoon before milk feeding. Gradually, over several days, increase the amount to the age norm (10-12 months - 180-200 g).
  • The given amount is indicative, the required amount of porridge depends on the age at which complementary foods are introduced and the child's appetite.

Preparation:

Milk formula preparation:

  • Boil 90 ml of water, cool to 40-50°C.
  • Place 3 scoops of HiPP or your child's favorite formula and 6 tablespoons of HiPP dry flakes in a bowl, add prepared water, stir.
  • Check food temperature before feeding!

Cooking with water:

  • Boil 100 ml drinking water and cool to 50°C.
  • Place 6 tablespoons of HiPP dry flakes in a bowl, add prepared water and stir. To prepare cereal with fruit, add a small amount of fruit puree, mix.
  • Check food temperature before feeding!

Cooking with milk for older children:

  • Boil 50 ml milk and 50 ml water, cool to 50°C.
  • Place 6 tablespoons (35 g) of dry HiPP flakes on a plate. Add cooked milk and water, stir.
  • Check food temperature before feeding!

Note: Do not use tap, well, well or other sources of water - it may be hazardous to the child's health. To prepare porridge, use special baby water or, in extreme cases, ordinary bottled drinking water.

Storage conditions:

Closed bag (packing) store in a dry place, protected from direct sunlight at a temperature of 3°C to 25°C. Open the package (package) tightly close and store in dry and hygienic conditions at room temperature, max. 25°C. Use the contents of the opened package within 3-4 weeks.

Shelf life: 15 months

HiPP Quality Seal:

Exceeding organic production standards means for us to do more than is required to be eligible to label products with the EU Organic logo.

  • Over 60 years of experience in organic farming;
  • Animals are subject to strict HiPP requirements;
  • Research on the conservation of species and the development of biodiversity;
  • More stringent limits than required by the EU Organic Farming Regulation;
  • Over 260 quality checks per jar;
  • Climate neutral jar production.

Where do we get the ingredients for HiPP products from?

HiPP has been researching for many years how sustainability and biodiversity can be improved. All of our organic raw materials are sourced worldwide to strict quality requirements.

Learn more