Once Upon a Farm recalled all lots of its Tractor Wheels Organic Toddler Soft-Baked Bars after reports involving young children prompted a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warning over choking risks.
The company said three consumer reports of a potential choking hazard led to its voluntary recall, announced Oct. 30. The FDA posted its recall notice Nov. 2. The recall covers every flavor and lot, including expired bars that may still be in homes. The products were sold online and in stores across the United States and Puerto Rico.
The FDA safety advisory describes toddlers ages 1.5 to 2.5 who experienced complete airway obstruction and could not breathe after eating the bars. The agency said saliva and chewing can cause the snack to form a compact, sticky mass. Common choking first-aid measures, including back blows and the Heimlich maneuver, may fail to dislodge it, and some cases required emergency assistance and hospital observation.
Once Upon a Farm said no injuries had been reported as of its announcement and that no other products were affected. The company said it is working with the FDA to remove the bars and reformulate them.
Once Upon a Farm told consumers not to open the recalled bars, while the FDA advised consumers not to buy or serve them. They can be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund or discarded; retailers should stop selling them. The agency said it will update its advisory as more information becomes available.
