Target is pulling one of its baby care products from shelves over a safety concern. The retailer is recalling its up and up baby wipes after testing pointed to possible contamination, a move aimed at protecting some of the most vulnerable users.
The recall covers specific versions of the product. It applies to the up and up fragrance free and cucumber scented baby wipes, the lines that the company has identified as affected.
The reason behind the action is potential bacterial contamination. Target is recalling the wipes because of the risk that they may carry bacteria, a concern serious enough to prompt a formal recall.
The first warning signs came from customers. The company says it received complaints about the wipes getting discolored, an early indication that something was wrong with the product.
Further testing confirmed the danger. FDA testing later revealed the presence of bacteria that may result in serious and life threatening infections in babies and younger children, raising the stakes of the recall considerably.
There have also been reports of harm linked to the wipes. Target says it has received complaints of eye and skin irritation, suggesting that some users may already have been affected before the recall.
The company has given clear instructions to anyone who has the product. Customers are told to stop using the wipes immediately and return them for a full refund, putting an end to any further use of the affected items.