Nutek Disposables, which manufacturers wet wipe products in the US, has recalled a number of its baby wipe brands because of concerns that some packages may contain bacteria.
The company initiated a nationwide voluntary product recall at a retail level of all lots of its Cuties, Diapers.com, Femtex, Fred's, Kidgets, Member's Mark, Simply Right, Sunny Smiles, Tender Touch and Well Beginnings baby wipes.
All the wipes that are considered at risk were distributed by Nutek prior to 21 October to Walgreens, Sam's Club, Family Dollar, Fred's and Diapers.com.
The recall was initiated after the company received complaints about odour and discolouration. Nutek then conducted microbial testing, which confirmed the presence of the bacteria Burkholderia cepacia (B. cepacia). This form of bacteria is composed of several different bacterial species including one that can cause pneumonia in immunocompromised individuals with pre-existing lung diseases.
As of 3 October, the date of the original withdrawal, Nutek had received only one report of irritation. However, since then, numerous complaints have been received that include rash, irritation, infections, fever, gastro-intestinal issues and respiratory issues, though these reports have not been confirmed to be related to the use of the wipes.
The company has not identified the cause of the problem, but is continuing to investigate. In the interim, Nutek has stopped shipping baby wipes manufactured at the facility.
