FDA recalls toddler soft-baked bars sold in DC over choking hazard

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is urging parents in the Washington DC area and nationwide to stop giving toddlers Once Upon a Farm Tractor Wheels Organic Toddler Soft-Baked Bars due to a potentially fatal choking hazard, FOX 5 DC reported.

The recall covers all flavors, quantities, and varieties of the soft-baked bars sold online and in stores such as Costco, Target, and Walmart, which are available in the DC metropolitan area.

The FDA received several reports of toddlers experiencing complete airway obstruction after eating the bars, with some incidents requiring emergency intervention and hospital observation, according to the agency's website.

Once Upon a Farm voluntarily issued the recall after three customer complaints and is cooperating with the FDA to remove affected products and inform families, the company stated.

The product reportedly forms a dry, sticky mass when chewed, which standard choking interventions like back blows and the Heimlich maneuver may not dislodge, the FDA warned.

Parents who have purchased the bars are advised not to use them and to return the product to the store for a full refund or contact the company directly for assistance.