The FDA advised parents not to buy or serve ‘Once Upon a Farm Tractor Wheels Organic Toddler Soft-Baked Bars’ because of a potentially fatal choking hazard.
The agency issued the advisory on October 30, after receiving several reports of toddlers choking on the snack bars. Once Upon a Farm announced a voluntary recall the same day. The advisory covered all flavors, quantities and varieties, including every lot code and expiration date.
What the FDA Reported
Per the report, the FDA noted incidents involving toddlers between 1.5 and 2.5 years old who experienced complete airway obstruction and couldn’t breathe after eating the bars. The agency noted that the product can create a dry, sticky mass when chewed.
That mass may not come loose with standard choking interventions such as back blows and the Heimlich maneuver. Some of the reported incidents required an emergency response and hospital observation.
The FDA said it informed the company of the adverse event reports and that the company agreed to start a recall.
Which Products Are Affected
The company named three varieties in its recall announcement:
- Apple, Sweet Potato and Spinach Tractor Wheels
- Strawberry, Pumpkin and Beet Tractor Wheels
- Banana, Pumpkin and Cauliflower Tractor Wheels
The FDA says its warning applied to every flavor of the Tractor Wheels bars. The bars are sold nationwide online and at stores including Costco, Target and Walmart. They may also be sold on Amazon and through other third-party vendors.
The company said it distributed the bars in dozens of states and Puerto Rico. It says no other Once Upon a Farm products are affected.
What the Company Said
Once Upon a Farm describes itself as an organic children’s food brand. It said it based the recall on three consumer complaints. The company described the move as a precaution.
The company has announced a partnership with the FDA to identify and remove affected products. They are ensuring families receive all necessary information about these products. Additionally, the company is taking steps to reformulate the bars to improve their safety and quality for consumers.
What Parents Should Do
The FDA said consumers should not buy or serve the bars and should throw them away immediately. The company instead asked customers not to open the package and to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- Customers can contact the company at care@uponafarm.com.
- The FDA said retailers should not sell the product.
- Parents can report a complaint or adverse event through the FDA’s consumer assistance page.
Anyone whose child shows symptoms should contact a health care provider. The FDA said to call 911 if a child is choking and other first aid measures have failed to clear the obstruction. Parents who stocked up on the bars may want to check pantries, diaper bags and daycare supplies. The FDA noted it will update the advisory as more information becomes available.
