Target has recalled certain Up & Up baby wipes sold nationwide after the products were found to be potentially contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli, according to a Food and Drug Administration recall notice. The recall covers both Fragrance Free Baby Wipes and Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes sold under Target’s private-label brand.
The FDA said the contamination could pose a serious health risk, especially to newborns, infants, young children, and people with weakened immune systems. In healthy users, exposure on skin with minor cuts or irritation may lead to local infections. In more vulnerable individuals, the bacteria could spread into the bloodstream and cause life-threatening complications such as sepsis or pneumonia.
Target said the affected wipes were sold with specific manufacturing date codes and expiration dates. The recalled Fragrance Free Baby Wipes include multiple package sizes, including 20-count, 72-count, 216-count, 800-count, and 2,000-count products. These were manufactured between November 7, 2025, and May 5, 2026, with expiration dates ranging from May 10, 2028, through November 5, 2028. The recalled Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes include 72-count, 216-count, and 800-count packages manufactured between December 29, 2025, and December 30, 2025, with expiration dates between June 29, 2028, and June 30, 2028.
Customers who have the affected products are being told to stop using them immediately. Target advised consumers to return the recalled wipes to any Target store for a full refund. The company said it received a number of consumer complaints and adverse event reports linked to the issue, including reports of product discoloration, skin irritation, eye irritation, and possible infections.
Burkholderia cepacia complex is a group of bacteria known to cause infections in people with underlying medical conditions, while Burkholderia gladioli can also pose risks in certain cases. The FDA warned that products contaminated with these organisms are of particular concern because baby wipes are commonly used on infants and young children, whose immune systems are still developing.
The recall affects products sold nationwide, making it important for parents and caregivers to check packaging details carefully. Anyone who has used the recalled wipes and notices symptoms such as unusual skin irritation, eye irritation, fever, or signs of infection should seek medical advice, especially if the user is an infant, newborn, or immunocompromised.
