The claim that Target brand baby food was recalled due to elevated levels of lead is true, based on verified information from both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and multiple reputable news outlets. In March 2025, Fruselva USA—the manufacturer of Target’s Good & Gather baby food—voluntarily recalled approximately 25,600 units of its “Baby Pea, Zucchini, Kale & Thyme” vegetable puree. The recalled products were sold in 4-ounce tubs and marketed for babies six months and older. According to the FDA and confirmed by outlets like People, AP News, and Parents.com, this recall was initiated after internal testing revealed elevated levels of lead in the affected batches, specifically lot numbers 4167 and 4169, which had best-by dates of December 7 and 9, 2025.
The recall was categorized as a Class II recall by the FDA, which means that the product may cause temporary or medically reversible health issues, but the chance of serious harm is considered low. Still, this situation is concerning, particularly because the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has made it clear that no level of lead exposure is safe for children, especially infants. Lead exposure in young children can lead to irreversible developmental delays and cognitive impairment. Although the risk in this case may be minimal according to federal classifications, the issue is still serious due to the vulnerable population involved.
To investigate the legitimacy of this claim, I checked multiple high-quality sources and traced their information back to the FDA's official announcement. The news outlets reporting on the story—including People Magazine, AP News, and Parents.com—all referenced the same FDA classification and recall details, rather than recycling unsourced or social media-based rumors. These outlets have a history of reliable reporting on consumer health and safety issues, and they included links to the original recall statement and FDA documentation. In addition, Fruselva USA and Target both confirmed the recall and provided instructions for customers to receive refunds or dispose of the affected product.
In conclusion, the claim is true, backed by legitimate federal data and multiple corroborating media sources. The recall is a reminder of the importance of rigorous food safety testing, particularly for products intended for babies. While the chance of severe illness may be low in this case, Target and Fruselva took appropriate action in issuing the recall. This fact-check illustrates the value of tracing stories back to official sources, rather than simply relying on headlines, and highlights the need for continued oversight in the baby food industry.
