Washington, D.C., USA- January 13, 2020: FDA Sign at its headquarters in Washington DC. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or USFDA) is a federal agency of the USA.
IF Copack LLC, operating as Initiative Foods, is recalling a specific lot of its “Tippy Toes” Apple Pear Banana fruit puree after tests revealed elevated levels of patulin, a naturally occurring toxin produced by molds that can develop on fruit.
The recall, which was announced on February 13, was initiated following a recommendation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which found higher-than-normal levels of patulin during its Total Diet Study sampling program.
The product in question is sold under the Tippy Toes brand in plastic tubs labeled as Apple Pear Banana fruit puree. The recalled lot has a “Best By” date of July 17, 2026, printed on the bottom of each container, along with the package code INIA0120.
This baby food was distributed nationwide in retail grocery stores throughout the United States, excluding Alaska, and may have also been distributed in Guam and Puerto Rico.
Patulin is a mycotoxin that can form in fruits, especially apples, when mold is present. Prolonged exposure to high levels may pose health risks, including potential immune suppression, nerve damage, headaches, fever, and nausea, according to health officials. So far, no illnesses or injuries related to the recalled lot have been reported.
Initiative Foods stated that it collaborated with the FDA to pinpoint the specific lot that is being recalled. The company emphasized that consumer safety is its top priority and that it is working with federal regulators to review and enhance safety protocols.
Consumers who have purchased the affected product are urged to stop using it immediately and either dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Parents or caregivers with health concerns after a child consumes the product should reach out to a healthcare provider.
Retailers are advised to check their inventories and remove the recalled lot from their shelves and distribution channels.
For more information, consumers and retailers can contact the company’s toll-free recall hotline at 1-855-215-5730 during business hours on weekdays.
The recall is being conducted with the full knowledge of the FDA.
Product Information
| Product Name | Packaging Format | UPC(s) | Lot Number(s) / Expiration Date | Package Code Identifier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana | 2-pack plastic tubs, with product information sleeve | 036800 265783 | Lot # 07174 Best By Date: “BB 07/17/2026” | INIA0120 |
