The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has initiated a recall of Tippy Toes Apple Pear Banana fruit puree due to the discovery of excessive levels of patulin, a harmful mycotoxin. The recall, announced on July 7, 2026, by IF Copack LLC, which operates as Initiative Foods, follows federal testing that revealed contamination levels exceeding safe limits.
Patulin is a toxic compound that can form when mold develops on apples and other fruits. The FDA’s findings came as part of its Total Diet Study sampling program, which assesses food safety across various products. According to the company, long-term consumption of products with high patulin levels may pose serious health risks, including a weakened immune system, neurological damage, headaches, elevated body temperature, and gastrointestinal distress.
As of the recall announcement, Initiative Foods reported no illnesses linked to the contaminated product. The affected batch, identified by batch number 07174 and an expiration date of July 17, 2026, was distributed to retailers across all U.S. states except Alaska, as well as to Guam and Puerto Rico.
Response from Initiative Foods
In a statement, Don Ephgrave, President of Initiative Foods, emphasized the company’s commitment to consumer safety. “Consumers and their families are our highest priority,” Ephgrave said, highlighting the cooperation with the FDA to implement enhanced quality control measures.
The company is advising consumers who may have purchased the affected product to dispose of it immediately. Retailers are also being instructed to remove the contaminated units from their shelves to prevent further distribution.
As this situation develops, consumers are encouraged to stay informed about additional updates regarding food safety from the FDA and Initiative Foods. The recall serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety standards and the ongoing efforts to monitor and safeguard public health.
