Nutek Baby Wipe Recall 2014: List of Brands And Retailers Affected By Bacteria-Related Product Withdrawal

Nutek Disposables Inc. issued a voluntary recall Tuesday for potentially contaminated baby wipes sold under 10 brand names at several major retail stores, the company said. Some baby wipes were found to contain Burkholderia cepacia, a type of bacteria that can compromise weakened immune systems.

“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,” Nutek's press release said. “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.”

The company received complaints that its baby wipes had caused “rash, irritation, infections, fever, gastro-intestinal issues and respiratory issues,” it said. However, it’s unclear if these issues actually stemmed from use of the baby wipes.

Nutek has yet to determine what led to the presence of bacteria in its baby wipes. The company has stopped shipping its products and will allow customers to return the baby wipes to their place of purchase for a full refund.

Though it rarely affects healthy individuals, B. cepacia can cause infections in those who suffer from chronic lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The following Nutek baby wipe brands are affected by the recall: Cuties, Diapers.com, Femtex, Fred’s, Kidgets, Member’s Mark, Simply Right, Sunny Smiles, Tender Touch and Well Beginnings. These brands are sold at the following retailers: Walgreens, Sam’s Club, Family Dollar, Fred’s and Diapers.com. Customers can contact Nutek directly at 1-855-646-4351, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET.