Gerber issues nationwide recall of teething sticks due to choking hazard
Gerber Products Company has initiated a nationwide recall and discontinuation of all batches of Soothe N Chew® Teething Sticks after one child required emergency room treatment and multiple consumers reported choking incidents, according to a press release from its parent company, Nestle USA.
Newsweek reached out to Nestle USA via email on Sunday for comment.
Why It Matters
The recall affects a widely distributed baby product marketed as an “edible teether,” raising concerns about infant safety and highlighting the challenges in designing safe products for young children.
The decision to both recall and discontinue the product line comes amid increased attention to infant product safety standards.
What To Know
The recall affects three specific product variations:
- Strawberry Apple (3.2 oz) – UPC: 0 15000 04618 7
- Banana (3.2 oz) – UPC: 0 15000 04608 8
- Banana (1.59 oz) – UPC: 0 15000 01015 7
Distribution Coverage
Products were distributed in:
- AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI
- Puerto Rico
- All lot codes are affected
- Products were sold through online retailers, distribution centers, and retail stores
States not included in distribution:
- Alaska
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
What People Are Saying
Nestle USA Statement: “We sincerely apologize for any concern or inconvenience this action represents to parents, caregivers and retail customers.”
FDA Involvement: The company confirms it is “working with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration on this recall and will cooperate with them fully.”
What Happens Next
Parents and caregivers should:
- Stop using these products immediately
- Return items to the original retailer for a refund
- Contact healthcare providers if concerned about injuries
- Call Gerber’s 24/7 helpline (1-800-443-7237) for support
Retailers in affected states will implement return procedures while Gerber works with the FDA to ensure complete removal of these products from the market.
