Pennsylvania-based Nutek Disposables, Inc.is recalling baby wipes sold at retailers Walgreen’s, Family Dollar, Sam’s Club and internet retailer Diapers.com because some packages may be contaminated with bacteria, according to a Nutek news release distributed this morning by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The expanded nationwide voluntary product recall at the retail level affects all lots of baby wipes that Nutek Disposables manufactured under the brand names Cuties, Diapers.com, Femtex, Fred's, Kidgets, Member's Mark, Simply Right, Sunny Smiles, Tender Touch, and Well Beginnings. These wipes were distributed by Nutek prior to October 21, 2014 to Walgreens, Sam's Club, Family Dollar, Fred's, and Diapers.com.
“After receiving a small number of complaints of odor and discoloration, Nutek conducted microbial testing that showed the presence of a bacteria, called Burkholderia cepacia (B. cepacia), in some of these products,” according to a Nutek release distributed this morning by the FDA. “Soon after, on Oct. 3, 2014 the company initiated a voluntary withdrawal of lots that had tested positive for the bacteria, as well as other baby wipes in the surrounding time frame. After some additional lots were tested, as a precautionary measure, Nutek believed it was a prudent decision to withdraw all its baby wipe products.”
B. cepacia poses little medical risk to healthy people, company officials said. But those who have certain health problems such as weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases, particularly cystic fibrosis, may be more susceptible to infections with B. cepacia. Those who have a weakened immune system or chronic lung disease and who have used one of the affected wipe products should call their doctor promptly for medical advice, company officials said.
The company had received one report of irritation as of Oct. 3, but has received “numerous reports of complaints … that include rash, irritation, infections, fever, gastro-intestinal issues, and respiratory issues” since then, although these reports “have not been confirmed to be related to the use of these products,” Nutek officials said.
Consumers who have purchased this product can return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (855) 646-4351, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern time.
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